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Description: A novel about an unscrupulous journalist. Bel-Ami, an immediate success, was
drawn largely from Maupassant’s own experience and is said to be semi-autobio-
graphical. Its literary depiction of Pa...

A novel about an unscrupulous journalist. Bel-Ami, an immediate success, was
drawn largely from Maupassant’s own experience and is said to be semi-autobio-
graphical. Its literary depiction of Parisian settings is unparalleled.

Bel Ami

1

Bel Ami
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] *END THE SMALL PRINT! FOR PUBLIC DOMAIN ETEXTS*Ver. BEL AMI OR THE HISTORY OF A SCOUNDREL A NOVEL BY GUY DE MAUPASSANT TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER I
. POVERTY
CHAPTER II
.] [Project Gutenberg is a TradeMark and may not be used in any sales of Project Gutenberg Etexts or other materials be they hardware or software or any other related product without express permission. Money should be paid to the: "Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. public domain materials.07/27/01*END* This etext was produced by Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. time." If you are interested in contributing scanning equipment or software or other items.CHAPTER I WHAT IF YOU *WANT* TO SEND MONEY EVEN IF YOU DON'T HAVE TO? Project Gutenberg is dedicated to increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be freely distributed in machine readable form. DUROY LEARNS SOMETHING
CHAPTER V
. The Project gratefully accepts contributions of money. FIRST ATTEMPTS
CHAPTER IV
.com
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[Portions of this header are copyright (C) 2001 by Michael S. THE FIRST INTRIGUE
. please contact Michael Hart at: hart@pobox. Hart and may be reprinted only when these Etexts are free of all fees. MADAME FORESTIER
CHAPTER III
. or royalty free copyright licenses.

ATTAINMENT BEL-AMI
CHAPTER I
. It was the twenty-eighth of June and he had only three francs in his pocket to last him the remainder of the month. and rudely jostled the people upon the streets in order to clear a path for himself. with blue eyes. among whom were three saleswomen. By Jove. hair naturally wavy and parted in the middle. I am thirsty. preserving his military air and carriage. and two women with their husbands. the sewers exhaled poisonous gases and the restaurants the disagreeable odors of cooking and of kindred smells. sweeping glance upon the diners. fair. When Georges Duroy reached the boulevard he halted again. and he scowled at them. When he reached the sidewalk. Parisian evenings when not a breath of air is stirring. a curled mustache. Tall. undecided as to which road to choose. THE FINAL PLOT
CHAPTER XVIII
. If he could have caught one of them at a corner in the dark he would have choked him
. DIVORCE
CHAPTER XVII
. POVERTY After changing his five-franc piece Georges Duroy left the restaurant. smoked their pipes at the carriage gates. he sauntered down Rue Notre Dame de Lorette. and even to the houses. hats in hand. farewell to the meager supper the following night! Yet he said to himself: "I will take a glass at the Americain. he paused to consider what route he should take. and pedestrians strolled leisurely along. the entire city. an untidy music-teacher of uncertain age. The large. well-patronized cafes tempted Duroy. Porters in their shirt-sleeves.CHAPTER XVI
8
CHAPTER XVI
. he recalled the hero of the popular romances. He twisted his mustache in military style and cast a rapid. As he pondered upon this unpleasant state of affairs. It was one of those sultry. men who could afford to slake their thirst. but were he to drink only two glasses of beer in an evening. He appeared to be hostile to the passers-by. well-built. astride their chairs. according to choice." He glanced at men seated at the tables. Finally he turned toward the Madeleine and followed the tide of people. That meant two dinners and no lunches. or two lunches and no dinners. "Rascals!" he muttered.

there one could not commit such deeds with impunity. But three years of life in Paris had made another man of him. He followed him.CHAPTER I
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without a scruple! He recalled the two years spent in Africa. He was very much changed. They ordered him to spend the winter in the south. of the consultations. noisy. Forestier asked: "Where are you going?"
. repeating: "Where the deuce have I seen that fellow?" For a time he racked his brain in vain. debating as to whether he should take that "glass." Before deciding. Forestier!" and hastening up to him. he glanced at a clock." "But you look well. my dear fellow. they were not sought for. how are you?" "Very well." Forestier. But in Paris it was different. and then what would he do at eleven o'clock? So he walked on. the opinions and the advice of the doctors and of the difficulty of following their advice in his position. a tall." "Not remember Georges Duroy of the Sixth Hussars.' That is what I am doing. "I manage the political department on 'La Vie Francaise'. He knew that when the beer was placed in front of him. indeed. two sheep. he would drink it. told him of his malady. And how are you?" "Oh. The culprits were never found. it was a quarter past nine. intending to go as far as the Madeleine and return. and always in good spirits. I report the doings of the Senate for 'Le Salut. A smile hovered about his lips at the recollection of an escapade which had cost three men their lives. He exclaimed: "Wait." Duroy. laid his hand upon the man's shoulder. attired in the uniform of a Hussar. but not so corpulent and more youthful. a foray which had given his two comrades and himself seventy fowls. whose face he fancied was familiar." Forestier extended both hands. money. Formerly Forestier had been thin. He regretted that he had not remained where he was. sir?" Duroy began to laugh: "Don't you remember me?" "No. and the manner in which he had extorted money from the Arabs. taking his former comrade's arm. about the time of my return to Paris four years ago. the Arab being looked upon as the soldier's prey. but how could he? He was married and was a journalist in a responsible editorial position. looked at him. giddy. now he was stout and serious. and something to laugh about for six months. glanced at him. and said: "What do you want. but he had hoped to improve his condition--and for that reason he was in Paris! He passed the Vaudeville and stopped at the Cafe Americain. and his hair was gray on his temples although he could not number more than twenty-seven years. When he reached the Place de l'Opera. "Ah. I cough six months out of the twelve as a result of bronchitis contracted at Bougival. The latter turned. in surprise. young man passed him.' and from time to time I write for 'La Planete. then suddenly he saw the same man. I am not very well.

It is not difficult to pass for being learned. avoid the quicksands and obstacles. When my time was up. gladly." "Good." They walked along arm-in-arm with that familiarity which exists between schoolmates and brother-officers. "What are you doing in Paris?" asked Forestier. I have no recommendations." "That makes no difference. Suddenly he began to cough and stopped to allow the paroxysm to spend itself. But how is it you have not found anything better than a clerkship at the station?" Duroy replied: "I hunted everywhere and found nothing else." He spoke like one who understood human nature. You will ruin your prospects at once. they will no longer consider you their equal. Duroy shrugged his shoulders. and the rest can be found in a dictionary. Just maneuver. observing man can sometimes become a minister." His companion looked at him from head to foot like a practical man who is examining a subject. my dear fellow. "Dying of hunger. But I know where I can get three thousand francs at least--as riding. but the means are. and afterward take a drink with me?" "Yes. simply.master at the Pellerin school. and he smiled as the crowd passed them by. The secret is not to betray your ignorance."
. But when you are once a riding-master all will be over. "I am alone. all depends on assurance. no one knows any more except about a score of fools. A shrewd. You might as well be a butler in a house to which all Paris comes to dine. you can leave it if you wish to at any time.CHAPTER I Duroy replied: "Nowhere in particular."
10
"Very well. then he said. then he said in a discouraged tone: "Isn't it tiresome not to be able to get rid of this bronchitis? And here is midsummer! This winter I shall go to Mentone. Health before everything. In your office at least no one knows you. will you accompany me to the 'Vie Francaise' where I have some proofs to correct." Forestier murmured: "That is not very much. You must obtrude yourself and yet not ask anything." Forestier stopped him: "Don't do it." He paused. If Cicero and Tiberius were mentioned would you know who they were?" "Yes. When you have given riding lessons to men of the world or to their sons. though I have been smitten several times. The spirit is not lacking. or rather to live in Paris--and for six months I have been employed in a railroad office at fifteen hundred francs a year." "But what can I do?" answered Duroy. I came hither to make my fortune. here. in a tone of conviction: "You see. for you can earn ten thousand francs. reflected several seconds and then asked: "Are you a bachelor?" "Yes. I know no one.

He emptied his at a single draught. the celebrated writer and duelist. He earns thirty thousand francs a year for two articles a week. then come and dine with me to-morrow. and also a friend of Mme. a dark complexion. they ascended the stairs.room." When they were seated at a table. Every poem he gives us costs three hundred francs and the longest has not two hundred lines. fashionably dressed. very young. "You have no dress suit? Egad." said Forestier. they met a stout. with a busy air. Will you come?" Duroy hesitated. murmured: "I have no suitable clothes. his wife. self-satisfied air. "Sit down. "I shall be back in five minutes. But let us go into the Napolitain. the manager. his cane under his arm. holding sheets of paper in their hands. "the poet. dressed in a black coat. Forestier said to him: "Adieu.'--a very expensive man. Forestier. my dear sir. from time to time men passed him by. we all have to make a beginning." Duroy entered. while Duroy sipped his beer slowly as if it were something rare and precious. it is better to have no bed
. some reporter bringing news. Forestier reappeared arm-in-arm with a tall. Forestier ordered two glasses of beer. now compositors. blushing and perplexed. At first you would only get two hundred and fifty francs a month but your cab fare would be paid. and Norbert de Varenne whom you have just seen." As they went downstairs. M." and the other pressed his hand with: "Au revoir." Forestier pushed open the door and said: "Come in. Finally he. their shirts spotted with ink--carefully carrying what were evidently fresh proofs. In Paris. Forestier bowed low. "That is Jacques Rival. I am getting thirsty. and an insolent. little man with long hair. and then entered a kind of waiting. that is indispensable." and he disappeared. Garin. "Why don't you try journalism?" Duroy looked at him in surprise and said: "Because I have never written anything. behind a large glass door an open paper was affixed." "Bah. Now they were young men. three people were reading it. Montel and he are the best witty and realistic writers we have in Paris. Above the door was printed the legend. "La Vie Francaise. Occasionally a gentleman entered. I will only ask five or six to meet you. with a white cravat." "Well. entering by one door and going out by another before he had time to glance at them. Walter. He came to correct his proofs. Shall I speak to the manager?" "If you will. Suddenly his companion asked." Then he descended the stairs whistling. Duroy asked his name." Forestier was amazed. I could employ you myself by sending you to obtain information. who was ascending the stairs whistling.CHAPTER I
11
They reached the Boulevarde Poissoniere." said he. passed through an antechamber in which two clerks greeted their comrade. Duroy remained where he was. my friend. the author of 'Les Soleils Morts. with Jacques Rival. thin man of thirty or forty. "Norbert de Varenne.

" His companion exclaimed: "The Folies Bergeres! Very well!" They turned and walked toward the Faubourg Montmartre. and said kindly: "You can repay me when it is convenient. It would be a pleasant lounging place. with four chairs upholstered in the same color." He took the ticket handed him.CHAPTER I
12
than no clothes. she summoned a friend who was passing. A cloud of tobacco smoke almost hid the stage and the opposite side of the theater. "Have you a good box?" "Certainly. but it is not true. Buy yourself what you need and pay an installment on it. a blonde with auburn hair. open at night. his eyes finding more to interest them in the grand promenade. And come and dine with us at half past seven. In the spacious foyer which led to the circular promenade. You could walk in alleys bright with electric light and seat yourself where you pleased to hear the music. finally he said: "I have never been to the Folies Bergeres. sir. two more glasses!" When he had paid the score. voluptuous brunette. leaning her arms upon the edge of her loge. Forestier remarked upon the motley appearance of the throng. To their right and left were similar boxes. he drew from it two louis. So what can we do? Nothing! There ought to be a summer garden here. but they do not interest me. hung and carpeted in red." Forestier interrupted him: "That's all right. where a man could listen to good music while drinking beneath the trees. A turn in the Bois is only enjoyable if you have a lady with you. Waiter. at 17 Rue Fontaine. was staring at him. Duroy stopped him." They turned toward the Madeleine." Then. "What shall we do?" asked Forestier. placed them before his companion. On the stage three men were performing on trapezes. take another glass of beer. I should like to go there. the journalist asked: "Would you like a stroll for an hour?" "Certainly. and said to her in a whisper intended to be heard. The brilliantly illuminated building loomed up before them. "Box 17?" "This way. She was a tall. "They say that in Paris an idler can always find amusement." The friends were shown into a tiny box." The other replied in a consequential tone: "I never pay. "We forgot to pass through the gate." and approached the box-office. fumbling in his vest-pocket. and they were within the hall. brilliantly dressed women mingled with black-coated men. They seated themselves. her face whitened with enamel." In confusion Duroy picked up the money and stammered: "You are very kind--I am much obliged--be sure I shall not forget. "There is a nice fellow!"
. likewise inclined to embonpoint. pushed open the door. and her lips painted. and that is a rare occurrence. A woman. Forestier entered. But Duroy paid no heed to them. Forestier forced his way rapidly through the throng and accosted an usher. The cafe concerts may divert my tailor and his wife. M. With a movement of her head. Where would you like to go?" Duroy did not know what to reply. her black eyes penciled. but Duroy did not listen to him. Forestier. It would be charming.

me. men and women sat at tables drinking. My congratulations!" The ci-devant soldier blushed and mechanically fingered the two pieces of gold in his pocket.CHAPTER I Forestier heard it." Forestier arose: "Very well. "Let us go into the garden. arm-in-arm with the blonde. said to him: "Thank you." and walk away. The curtain fell--the orchestra played a valse--and Duroy said: "Shall we walk around the gallery?" "If you like." In astonishment. Under the yews. "Go along. Occasionally a woman would stop and ask with a coarse smile: "What have you to offer. old man. sir?" Forestier's invariable answer was: "A glass of water from the fountain. Thank you. panted. and coughed. Forestier laughed and said: "Tell. vitiated as it was by tobacco and cheap perfume. Do not forget: 17 Rue Fontaine at seven thirty. His friend asked: "Shall you remain any longer? I am going. which the women swallowed rapidly. The waiter brought the beer. At last the brunette reappeared. "Gladly." As they disappeared. you are not very talkative. I have had enough. I will stay a little longer: it is not late. and taking a chair she calmly seated herself in front of him. nodding her head and tapping Duroy's arm with her fan. Duroy smiled. did you know that you had a charm for the weaker sex? You must be careful." he said."
13
Soon they were carried along in the current of promenaders." "I shall not forget. then they rose. then. Forestier exclaimed: "You are not at all bashful!" She replied: "Your friend has bewitched me. and said to Duroy with a smile: "You are lucky. he is such a fine fellow. Duroy drank in with delight the air." Duroy said nothing. "Another glass of beer?" asked Forestier." And the woman would mutter." Georges murmured: "Yes. they entered a kind of covered garden in which two large fountains were playing. two glasses. my dear boy. and the brunette. The former smiled on perceiving Duroy."
. my dear! However. good-bye until to-morrow. Turning to the left. They made a handsome couple. but Forestier perspired." They took their seats and watched the promenaders. I believe he has turned my head." Without replying. and said in a clear voice: "Waiter.

CHAPTER II
. Smiling to himself. his mind anxious. then rising. but when near them dared not address them. he had not been able to see himself entirely. shaven face. He felt that it was defective. He likewise paused before the third glass." said the porter pleasantly. On reaching the second floor. and his coat was too tight. during which the brunette took his arm and together they left the hall. for a man-of-the-world. Slowly he ascended the stairs. fearing that he might have been seen posing there by some of his friend's invited guests. he took himself for some one else. The lackey asked: "Whom shall I announce. he had bought his shirt that same evening at the Louvre for four francs fifty.CHAPTER II The friends shook hands and the journalist left Duroy to his own devices. Forestier live?" "Third floor on the left. and approbation. then stopped. and had exaggerated the imperfections of his toilette. pleasure.
14
Forestier once out of sight. he saw another mirror.
. The door opened almost immediately. MADAME FORESTIER "Where does M. and murmured half aloud. He was somewhat embarrassed and ill." Then he rang the bell. his boots were not glossy. a habit of his: "Hall mirrors are most convenient.at-ease. misfit. and before him stood a servant in a black coat.glass! Not having anything but a small mirror at home. with a grave. and was really satisfied with his general appearance. his heart beating. When he saw his reflection in the glass. He went toward them. twirled his mustache. his trousers were too wide and betrayed their cheapness in their fit. he did not even recognize himself. and again he joyously touched the gold pieces in his pocket. Monsieur?" He raised a portiere and pronounced the name. Duroy extended his hand and expressed his astonishment. He soon discovered the blonde and the brunette. Suddenly before him stood a well-dressed gentleman staring at him. Duroy felt free. and saw that it was his own image reflected in a pier. The person resembled Duroy so close that the latter retreated. or rather. He had on a new suit but he was uncomfortable. He was afraid of being surprised and began to ascend more rapidly. and once more slackened his pace to look at himself. Georges ascended the staircase. A pause ensued. A door opened on the staircase. took off his hat to arrange his hair. The brunette called out to him: "Have you found your tongue?" He stammered: "Zounds!" too bashful to say another word. he mingled with the crowd. so perfect in his appearance that Duroy again became confused as he compared the cut of their garments. on learning Duroy's destination.

She wore a gown of pale blue cashmere which clung gracefully to her supple form and rounded outlines. "I know. manager of "La Vie Francaise. financier. cousin. for such she was. Forestier kissed her. saying: "Good evening. de Marelle. but he did not know how to touch upon that delicate subject." with his wife. you know. He half thought of excusing himself. followed her. Monsieur--Charles told me of your meeting last night. it seemed to him that he was entering a new and charming life. A young. I am--" She held out her hand. lily-white purity from the mass of lace which ornamented the corsage and short sleeves. Mme. Forestier. but my friend Forestier has encouraged me to hope that." "Good evening. deputy." Duroy bowed. he replied: "a few months. and a rather heavy chin. she asked: "Have you been in Paris a long time?" Gradually regaining his self-possession. well-lighted room. and the thought that the handsome blonde was his friend's wife rendered him awkward and ill-at-ease. with distinguished manners and a dignified carriage. He glanced at Mme. he felt that he was being inspected from his head to his feet. we do not stand on ceremony. and then made the introductions: "M. fair woman received him alone in a large.CHAPTER II
15
Duroy lost his self-possession upon being ushered into a world as yet strange to him. that he was saved. upon his arm a tall. a moneyed man." The bell rang again and the servant announced: "Mme. disconcerted. a relative in fact. he knew not why. Forestier had gray eyes. a small nose. my friend. that of the girl he had met the preceding evening at the Folies-Bergeres. an old friend of Charles. He paused. Her hair was dressed high and curled on the nape of her neck. and as he sank into its luxurious depths." They embraced each other. daughter of the banker of that name. I can enter into journalism." She added: "Here. not knowing how to reply. a red rose in her black tresses seemed to accentuate her special character. attired in a simple. Duroy grew more at his ease under her glance. I am in the railroad employ. Mme. Madame. Mme. handsome woman." Duroy blushed to the roots of his hair. nee Basile Ravalade. or rather a child. taller than he and much younger. Who was that smiling lady? He remembered that Forestier was married. Madeleine.
." Mme. of inventing an explanation of the carelessness of his toilette. and a man of business. full lips. attractive face. and a young girl. Clotilde. full of gentleness and yet of malice. which recalled to him. then the child offered her forehead with the assurance of an adult. and I am very glad that he asked you to dine with us to-day. He stammered out: "Madame. It was M. Forestier said: "Good evening. Walter. After a short silence. that he would make his mark in the world. de Marelle. thanks to him. her arms and throat rose in. dark robe. he advanced. However. The door opened again and a short man entered. an irregular." She smiled kindly and murmured in a low voice: "I know." She was a dainty brunette. He seated himself upon a chair she pointed out to him. Georges Duroy.

sir. the new country should be opened to everyone. but weak in the art of farming. golden thread depended from her ear.CHAPTER II
16
Then came Jacques Rival. thanked him gravely saying." A pause ensued. Since Marambot has left us. de Marelle and her daughter." Leaving the subject of colonization. said: "What is needed the most down there is good soil. apologizing for being late. then Norbert de Varenne asked a general question: "Have you read the Gauthier case? How droll it was!" Then followed a discussion of the subject in which the ladies joined. M. familiar with and liking the country. Duroy sought vainly for some compliment to pay her. and the paper is suffering by it." while she listened to the conversation with a reflective air. I spoke to you a short while since of M. he busied himself with her daughter."
. Forestier now entered. M. They would be strong in fencing. Intelligent men would make positions for themselves. Georges Duroy. very elegant. filled her glass. A diamond upon a slight. more dignified than her mother. knowing its language and able to cope with all those local yet grave questions which invariably confront newcomers. of which he had four. he related anecdotes of the regiment. "You are very kind. excited by the wine and the desire to please. The real colonists. "In that way. or his glasses. Everyone smiled. from time to time she uttered a remark which evoked a smile upon his lips. Walter uttered several jocose remarks. his spoon. his long hair falling upon his hostess's bare arm as he did so. waited upon her. Forestier's hand kissed it. they would know everything. Duroy did not venture a remark. and they entered the dining-room. On the contrary." said he. The dinner was excellent and everyone was delighted with it. and how to sow wheat. but they would not know how to transplant beet-root. Mme." Forestier took advantage of the situation to say to M. The latter advanced with the grace of the old school and taking Mme. Jacques Rival declared himself in favor of a military government with grants of land to all the officers after thirty years of colonial service. Georges Duroy and asked you to permit me to include him on the staff of political reporters. I have had no one to take urgent and confidential reports. It is a natural law. startled at the sound of his own voice. The servant announced dinner. are generally cast out into the desert. the others would succumb. as if he had never heard it. and of the war. Walter murmured to him in her soft tones: "You could write a series of charming articles. Nothing was said during the soup. but occasionally glanced at his neighbor. Georges spoke with animation. sir?" He replied: "Yes. He colored. The conversation returned to the colonization of Algeria. Really fertile land costs as much as it does in France and is bought by wealthy Parisians. that was his province. Forestier alluded to the article he had prepared for the morrow. followed by Norbert de Varenne. of Arabian life. the poor. Walter: "My dear sir. Norbert de Varenne questioned him as to some of the Algerian customs." All eyes turned upon him. "you can establish a strong colony. I was there twenty-eight months. except agriculture." Norbert de Varenne interrupted: "Yes. Then a duel was mentioned and Jacques Rival led the conversation. where nothing grows for lack of water. He was again rendered uncomfortable for fear of committing some error in the conventional management of his fork. They would speak Arabic. and the child. Walter asked: "Do you know Algeria. he had been detained. Monsieur. Duroy was placed between Mme.

Simply relate your experiences." He took away the cup and returned: "If you. M. thank you. scattered about the room were couches and large and small easy-chairs. He rushed toward her: "Allow me. She thanked him gravely and stood upon tiptoe in order to lay her hand upon his arm. Madame. and as she was not near a table. which he feared he should let fall upon the carpet. and Forestier proposed the toast: "To the long prosperity of 'La Vie Francaise. we will arrange matters. I am sure they will interest our readers. he met Mme. M. turning to the young man. malice.'" Duroy felt superhuman strength within him. First he drank his coffee. He was at his ease now among these people. Forestier cast upon Duroy a protecting and smiling glance which seemed to say: "You shall succeed. or Utrecht velvet. Duroy. and if he will call upon me tomorrow at three o'clock. who had attained renown late in life.but the ear increases the beauty of the ornament. and as he did so. brocade. what pleasant moments 'La Vie Francaise'
. The portieres were of a grayish blue and the chairs were of all shapes. The walls were draped with violet hangings covered with tiny embroidered flowers of yellow silk. the young man carefully surveyed it." Mme. Norbert?" The old poet. a cream colored ground with garnet flowers. M. Duroy?" Mme. and one felt at ease." He murmured in reply. simply on a thread. it was restful. He replied dryly: "Yes." After a pause." She turned toward him with a smile: "It is a fancy of mine to wear diamonds like this.CHAPTER II
17
M. But you must do it quickly. all covered with Louis XVI. Madame. then he sought a pretext for approaching the manager's wife and commencing a conversation. Forestier offered him a cup. Forestier's eyes. Upon entering the drawing-room. "Do you take coffee. "Yes." The servant filled the glasses with wine. provided that it is written in the right key.' Will he not. and invincible resolution. When the party left the dining-room. Madame. he said: "You may write us a short sketch on Algeria. It was not a large room. in which he fancied he saw a mingled expression of gaiety. trembling at his audacity: "It is charming-." He took the cup." Then she vanished before he could reply." "Thank you. and for the first time he ventured to address his neighbor: "You have the most beautiful earrings I have ever seen. All the men were talking at the same time. As he turned his head. serious grace: "You will have a charming title: 'Souvenirs of a Soldier in Africa. but knew. Walter added with her customary. excellent. their discussion was animated. Suddenly he perceived that she held an empty cup in her hand. Duroy is original. but there were no bright colors. his eyes rested upon their faces with renewed assurance." Mme. the young woman whispered to him: "Pay Mme. sir. infinite hope. she did not know where to put it. Walter put on his spectacles in order to examine Duroy. Duroy offered his arm to the little girl. with the smile that was always upon her lips. disliked and mistrusted newcomers." She thanked him with a glance. for there lies the great difficulty. and encouragement. Then he said: "I am convinced that M. Walter some attention. of all sizes.

Forestier joined them. he felt like running down. and he slackened his pace. In her turn Mme." Seating himself. but did not reply. He observed that Jacques Rival's was dry and warm and responded cordially to his pressure. a cry of astonishment escaped her: "Well. Laurine has become sociable. Finally M. and Duroy discreetly withdrew. "Sit down here. de Marelle called: "Laurine!" and the girl came to her. but not all the time." They talked of Paris. Her mother was surprised: "Well. as if saluting some grand personage. His friend whispered to him: "To-morrow at three o'clock. in the large mirror. When Mme. called him: "So. He bowed to the ladies. He asked in a gallant. and then shook hands with the men. Monsieur. Walter had a great deal of trouble in producing the kind of journal which was required. He surveyed himself some time with a complacent smile. Duroy took Laurine upon his knee." "Never fear!" When he reached the staircase. Norbert de Varenne advanced.CHAPTER III afforded me. of everything they could think of. Suddenly. laid her hand upon Duroy's arm." "I will allow you to-day. what a miracle!" The young man rose to take his leave. yet paternal tone: "Will you permit me to kiss you." she said bluntly. a glass of liqueur in his hand. as if part of that embrace would revert to the mother. de Marelle. without life. to protect her-. Mme. as much ashamed as if he had been surprised in a crime. and kissed her lips and her fine wavy hair. Walter." Duroy was seized with an eager desire to embrace the child."
18
She smiled with amiable indifference as she replied: "M. de Marelle related anecdotes. he went down two steps at a time. it contains everything. You are irresistible. Forestier's fat and warm.
CHAPTER III
. and becoming familiar. who was chatting with her hostess. sir. fearing he might spoil his conquest by some awkward word. my child. Mademoiselle?" The child raised her eyes with an air of surprise. de Marelle said with a smile: "Reply. then taking leave of his image.
. Monsieur!" Duroy colored. Norbert de Varenne's was moist and cold and slipped through his fingers. the suburbs. his joy was so great. you will be cold near the window. Walter's was cold and soft. without any cause.and the slowness with which he replied to her questions indicated his preoccupation. he saw a gentleman hurrying on. do not forget. the delights of summer. expressionless. Mme. Mme. he bowed low. He felt that he would like to devote himself to her. when I was in the desert! It is indeed the only paper one cares to read outside of France. but suddenly on the second floor. "you are going to try journalism?" That question led to a renewal of the interrupted conversation with Mme. the Seine. ceremoniously. that is strange! Ordinarily she only allows ladies to caress her. clasped and gently pressed their hands.

a colonel. dreaming of the future and inhaling the soft night air. Some one must help me the first time. He saw their tiny home on the heights overlooking Rouen and the valley of the Seine. Convinced of his inability he arose once more."
. and looked out: the view was anything but prepossessing." Then he cast about for the first phrase. so he strolled along under the trees on one of the boulevards for a time. rising. and. rested his head upon his hand and thought--but in vain! However. After an effort he added: "It is inhabited partly by Arabs. I can't work well under such circumstances. But becoming disgusted with military life. I'll go to Forestier. he was not discouraged." When he reached the street. he decided to lay aside that page until the following day. He'll start my article for me in ten minutes. at which the citizens of the faubourgs took their lunches on Sundays. I could write very rapidly. about the fifteenth of May. he went thither. he found his friend going out. with what results we have seen. He felt inclined to stroll along. He glanced around his miserable room. Duroy's room was on the fifth floor. He awoke from his reflections as the locomotive whistled shrilly. I shall be able to work better to-morrow morning. and he decided to return home at once and begin work. not knowing how to introduce his subject. Suddenly the desire to work came on him. On arriving at Forestier's door. What should he say? Suddenly he thought: "I must begin with my departure. I am sure. if I could make a beginning. Forestier smiled maliciously: "I understand that. He awoke early. Duroy decided that it was rather early to present himself at his friend's house. his blood coursing rapidly through his veins. I have the ideas but I cannot express them. he hesitated as to what he should do. He dipped his pen into the ink and wrote at the head of his paper in a bold hand: "Souvenirs of a Soldier in Africa. Walter wants. thinking: "This won't do. but in thought reassured himself: "Bah. His studies completed. and to write a description of Algiers. and his thoughts reverted to his parents. he had vague ideas of what he wanted to say. mentally he rebelled against his poverty and resolved to leave the next day.CHAPTER III FIRST ATTEMPTS
19
When Georges Duroy reached the street. or a general. opened his window. La Belle-Vue. but the thought of the series of articles ordered by M. He walked rapidly along until he came to Rue Boursault. He entered it. muttering: "Bah." and he wrote: "In 1874. His father and mother kept an inn. he had entered the army with the intention of becoming an officer." He extinguished his light and fell asleep. When his time of service had expired. My brain is not clear to-night. "You here--at this hour! Can I do anything for you?" Duroy stammered in confusion: "I--I--cannot write that article on Algeria that M. He began: "Algiers is a very clean city--" but he could not continue." So he placed his light upon the table and began to write. It is not very surprising. He turned to the window just as the train was coming out of the tunnel. After a few minutes' reflection. It requires practice. They had wished to make a "gentleman" of their son and had sent him to college. dipped his pen in the ink. Walter occurred to him. seeing that I have never written anything. when exhausted France was recruiting after the catastrophe of the terrible years--" Here he stopped short. The tenement in which he lived was occupied by twenty families--families of workingmen--and as he mounted the staircase he experienced a sensation of disgust and a desire to live as wealthy men do. He rested his head upon his hand and stared at the blank sheet before him. and began to disrobe. he determined to try his fortune in Paris. I must go to work. and he tried to begin the article again. He turned away." Then he threw his pen upon the table and arose. I am not accustomed to it! It is a profession that must be learned like all professions. closed his window. but he could not express his thoughts in words." He paused and hesitated. opened his window to inhale the fresh air. In a few moments he seated himself at his table. I have drunk a little too much.

Walter wants--and I did not succeed--I destroyed all my attempts--I am not accustomed to the work--and I came to ask Forestier to assist me--his once." She took a cigarette from the mantelpiece and lighted it. "So soon?" said she." She interrupted with a laugh: "And he sent you to me?" "Yes. "what are you going to say?" He looked at her in astonishment. wondering what he should say and what kind of a reception he would receive. You will find her in my study. anyone is liable to have that trouble at the beginning." She questioned him in detail and finally said: "Now. In ten minutes you can set me right. Forestier if she will see me. insisted--I dare scarcely tell you my errand--I worked late last night and early this morning. for they know my handwriting on the paper--we will write a successful article. yes." The lackey soon returned and ushered Duroy into Madame's presence." She replied: "I will manage it all right. I have trained her for that work. but I shall tell her you sent me!" Forestier walked away. without you I can do nothing. It was not a reproach. and tell her that M. take my chair. He patted his companion's arm and said to him: "Go to my wife. but a simple question. well--I have come to ask you to help me.CHAPTER III
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Duroy continued: "Yes. "I cannot work without smoking. First of all we will suppose that you are addressing a friend." "I will go. to write the article on Algeria which M. He said you could help me better than he--but--I dared not--I did not like to." she said. I will make the sauce but I must have the dish. sent me. Begin this way: 'My dear Henry. you can. I have not time this morning or I would do it willingly. she will help you better than I can. and Duroy slowly ascended the stairs. I am charmed with your idea.'"
." "Oh. Forestier. "It will be delightful to work together that way. but your husband. "I do not know. which will allow us scope for remarks of all kinds. He stammered: "I did not want to come up. whom I met below. I came here to find that out. Madame." Duroy replied: "Ask Mme. The servant who opened the door said: "Monsieur has gone out. Madame. She was seated at a table and extended her hand to him. Wait." But Duroy hesitated: "At this hour I cannot inquire for her." She rose. and. you wish to know something about Algeria. she has risen." The other smiled gaily. we will begin. You can give me a lesson in style. you shall. whom I met on the street.

"What. I will take you to M. smoking a cigarette. Forestier shrugged her shoulders.' or 'The week of duty. though why he should be. de Marelle?" "I think her very fascinating. His wife calls it 'Holy Week." Duroy was surprised to hear that Mme. allow me to present to you an old comrade of Charles. Walter in?" "M. Forestier. then he turned to the clerk and said: "M. It is for that reason that her husband no longer loves her. Georges Duroy." he said. The chairs. Walter is engaged. an excursion to the province of Oran." he asked." He was conducted along a corridor and ushered into a large room in which four men were writing at a table. and an adventure with a pretty Spanish maid employed in a factory. and then lounged along the boulevard. my dear sir. Count de Vaudrec. the furniture." was the reply. he is superintendent of a railroad. grateful for and delighted with their growing intimacy." He had not the courage to do so. and then Duroy took his leave. and a gentleman entered unannounced. he could not divine. For a moment Mme. and intelligent she is! She is a true Bohemian. Forestier was standing before the fireplace. It seemed to him that everything about him was a part of her. though her cheeks were tinged with a blush: "Come in." The two men bowed." As she spoke. you will see how witty she is! Come here and see her some day.CHAPTER III Then followed a brilliantly worded description of Algeria and of the port of Algiers. He only sees her defects and none of her good qualities. On reaching the street he felt sad and uncomfortable. de Marelle was married. a visit to Saida. Count de Vaudrec's face was constantly before him. Forestier is here. gazed into one another's eyes. At any rate. Forestier seemed confused. He halted on seeing a man. or else you might remain here until seven o'clock.
21
When the article was concluded. To while away the time until three o'clock. and he would have liked to add: "But not as much so as you. the air--all were permeated with that delightful fragrance peculiar to her.' When you get better acquainted with her. It seemed to him that the man was displeased at finding him tete-a-tete with Mme. he could find no words of thanks." Then in a different tone. "is she married? What does her husband do?" Mme. She continued: "If you only knew how comical. he climbed the stairs leading to the office of "La Vie Francaise. "Oh. he lunched at Duval's. Walter had an appointment with me at three o'clock. he was happy to be near her. He is in Paris a week out of each month. then she said in a natural voice. Neither tried to detain him."
. original." Duroy asked: "Is M. After listening to Duroy's story he said: "Come with me. the door opened noiselessly. She asked bluntly: "What do you think of my friend Mme. Walter. even to the books upon the shelves. a future journalist. When the clock chimed the hour of his appointment. M. she said: "Our best and dearest friend. "Will you please take a seat?" Duroy waited twenty minutes. see if my friend M.

seated in an easychair. Norbert de Varenne was writing an article." Taking his friend's arm. Forestier?" But Forestier hastened to reply: "It is not necessary. You can arrange with him for all important news. The latter said to his new reporter: "You must come here every day at three o'clock. you will see him to-morrow. and I will tell you what places to go to. Forestier said: "Here is my friend Duroy. while M. You are a man of your word. who will in turn introduce you to one of his employees. Walter. he whispered: "You know you promised to engage Duroy to replace Marambot. Walter. and two sous a line for articles you are ordered to write on different subjects." The manager looked keenly at the young man and asked: "Have you brought my article?" Duroy drew the sheets of manuscript from his pocket. I shall give you a letter of introduction to the chief of the police. the journalist drew him away. Above all. do not worry about it. For details you can apply to Saint-Potin. I will correct the proofs. and was on the street long before the newsboys." "And our--our article?" "Oh. You will receive two hundred francs a months. When they approached M. official and semiofficial.
CHAPTER IV
. First of all." "What shall I do to-day?" asked Duroy. The room had the peculiar odor familiar to all journalists. DUROY LEARNS SOMETHING Georges Duroy did not sleep well. Forestier and Duroy returned to the room in which Georges had found his friend. you must learn to make your way everywhere in spite of closed doors. He rose at daybreak. who is posted. I helped him in order to initiate him into the profession. two sous a line for original matter. Walter returned to the game of ecarte he had been engaged in when they entered. Need I look over it. Do the rest to-morrow and come here at three o'clock as you did to-day. Jacques Rival." And after shaking hands.CHAPTER IV
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They entered the manager's room. you can go if you wish to. so anxious was he to see his article in print." The manager seemed delighted and said with a smile: "Very good. Monsieur. "Here they are. "I have no work for you to-day. Duroy descended the staircase with a light heart." Then bending toward him. It is very good. stretched upon a divan. When he secured a paper and saw his name at the end of a column in
. Will you allow me to retain him on the same terms?" "Certainly. M. was smoking a cigar.

to Duroy: "Listen." To Duroy he said: "Observe what Saint. He then had some cards written with his new calling beneath his name." "Take Duroy. draw his salary." and by that means was avenged for many petty insults which had been offered him." "Very well. Forestier asked him. To change the subject he said: "It seems to me that it is late.Potin says." Duroy felt as if he would like to box Saint-Potin's ears. and hand in his resignation. If you think you will be paid for doing nothing. that done he decided to go to the railroad office." said he. made several purchases. Forestier turned around in his chair and said. At the other end of the table sat a short. sparing no one in his criticism. he was fortunate in marrying his wife. I had so much to do--I could not." He continued writing. M.CHAPTER IV
23
large letters. with you and initiate him into the business. at what time shall you interview those people?" "At four o'clock." Duroy asked: "What about his wife?" Saint-Potin rubbed his hands. while Saint-Potin gave Duroy a sketch of all the officials connected with the paper. Forestier added: "Have you brought the other paper on Algeria? The article this morning was very successful. He felt inclined to enact the part of a newsboy and cry out to the hurrying throng: "Buy this! it contains an article by me!" He strolled along to a cafe and seated himself in order to read the article through." Then turning to his friend. and Rajah Taposahib Ramaderao Pali. very stout and bald. The Chinese general Li-Theng-Fao. he added: "You should strike while the iron is hot. have been in Paris two days. The two men walked down the boulevard together. "Oh. I have several things for you to do. you will spoil your future. stopping at Hotel Bishop. she is beloved by an old fellow named Vaudrec--he dotes upon her." Then he resumed his work.Potin. Walter counted on your copy. When he mentioned Forestier. I thought I should have time this afternoon. their ideas of their system of colonization and government. he became very much excited. when his letter was completed. and we have two noble lords to call upon!"
." The other shrugged his shoulders. "Saint." Saint-Potin rose: "I am ready. I will tell him it will be ready to-morrow." After a pause. he said: "As for him." Duroy stammered: "No. who is here. pale man. "Ah. You must interview them. Ask the general and the rajah their opinions on the dealings of England in the extreme East. he said: "Do not forget the principal points I indicated to you. and try to learn how to draw out a man in five minutes." Addressing Saint-Potin. Just wait ten minutes till I finish this work. and repaired to the office of "La Vie Francaise. here you are! Very well. he is an excellent reporter." Forestier received him loftily as one would an inferior. With great pomposity he informed the chief clerk that he was on the staff of "La Vie Francaise. their hopes relative to the intervention of Europe and of France in particular. you are mistaken. stopping at the Continental. "If you are not more careful.

names. you did not force your way into the house for the pleasure of bidding us good morning." Georges stammered: "It is nothing. However he said: "Tell him it is M. In an hour he had finished an article. Then he returned home and seated himself at his table to work. her husband was seated writing. which was a chaos of absurd matter. I will write it alone and they shall see. it is this: I cannot complete my article. Before his eyes was the sheet of blank paper. Duroy paused upon the threshold and murmured: "I beg your pardon. I do not need you." At ten o'clock the following morning he rang the bell. said: "Monsieur is busy. and said to Charles: "I will be at the office at three o'clock. I must take another lesson. changing the heading. my dear fellow. The servant who opened the door. After trying for an hour. while Mme." Scarcely had he entered than he began to write. but all the material he had amassed had escaped him. titles. a cigarette between her lips." He returned home saying to himself: "Very well. Mentally he collected the material as he wended his way to the cafe at which he dined. Saint-Potin said to his companion: "If you have anything to do. I am interrupting you." In the course of five minutes he was ushered into the room in which he had spent so happy a morning." Then he bowed. and took it boldly to the office. he said: "I beg a thousand pardons. Madame. Well. replied: "No. I need only copy my article on the last comer. and ages: in that there must be no error. Forestier stood by the mantelpiece and dictated to him. We will smoke our cigars and stroll in that direction. Forestier had occupied." But Forestier persisted: "Come.' But on that subject the porter of the hotels will post me in five minutes." When they arrived at the Madeleine. word for word. "Here is the rest of Algeria."
." Duroy. that is fine!" His wife smoked on without interfering. anger spurring him on. and Japanese. he said: "I am not yet familiar with the work. Duroy hesitated: "Excuse me." Duroy had not expected to find Forestier at home. we are busy." His friend growled angrily: "What do you want again? Make haste. Hindoos. and you were--so--so kind the last time that I hoped--that I dared to come--" Forestier interrupted with: "So you think I will do your work and that you have only to take the money. and after filling five pages with sentences which had no connection one with the other.CHAPTER IV
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Saint-Potin laughed: "You are very innocent! Do you think that I am going to interview that Chinese and that Indian? As if I did not know better than they do what they should think to please the readers of 'La Vie Francaise'! I have interviewed five hundred Chinese. or I shall be hauled over the coals by the 'Figaro' or 'Gaulois. in a clear voice. That is the way. In the place Mme. in confusion. at his friend's house. Prussians. They all say the same thing. I believed--I--thought--" Then. Duroy on important business. Chilians. and thank you very much for the charming article you wrote for me yesterday." Duroy shook hands with him and walked away. Duroy handed Forestier his manuscript. we are losing time. The thought of the article he had to write that evening haunted him. Total--one hundred sous for cabfare.

with you. who had some political information to look up. took his arm and leaning upon it. hoping that the news he had been commissioned to obtain had been already received by them and that he could obtain it by means of his diplomacy. and speak to the manager yourself." Duroy smiled. the woman he had seen there before. he was dissatisfied with it." Duroy revised it several times. I will hand it to the manager. he knew all the cabinet
. However. I will introduce you to the cashier. He said nothing more of his "souvenirs. I have dreamed of you twice since the other night. were in the hall. she raised her eyes to the young man's face. Forestier. the cashier. and in the halls and corridors of the chamber of deputies. He had never had so much. and bade me return it to you to be revised. who had nothing more to do. only to have it rejected. and entering his friend's office. Duroy. Duroy. turned toward the Folies-Bergeres. Duroy left the room. brusquely asked: "Why did not my article appear this morning?" The journalist. how are you?" "I am not ill. but his name was not inscribed upon it. to show you off. it will have to be done over. a very affable man. I do not know if he remembered it." but gave his whole attention to reporting. When evening came. he will see that everything is all right. and walking up to the office. he said: "My name is Georges Duroy." The manager raised his head and said sharply: "I gave it to your friend. said: "Let us drink a glass of wine and then take a walk." He opened the paper feverishly. who promised to get me a pass. On entering the office several hours later. I am on the staff of 'La Vie Francaise." ******* At daybreak he again sallied forth to obtain a "Vie Francaise. in addition to what remained to him of his salary from the railroad office." He entered and almost at once came upon Rachel. One cannot tell what might happen. Walter: "I was very much surprised this morning not to see my second article on Algeria. That will do. why?" "Why? To get your pay? You should always get your salary a month in advance." The register was consulted. and asked him to read it."
25
When Duroy and Saint-Potin.CHAPTER IV "Very well. He became acquainted behind the scenes at the theaters. M. said to him: "Come in. my dear. which. Saint-Potin took him to the offices of four or five rival papers. the latter asked: "Have you been to the cashier's room?" "No. Forestier. said calmly: "The manager did not consider it good. left him three hundred and forty francs. There it is. "What does that mean?" "That means that I like you". are you well?" "Very well. and he thought himself rich for an indefinite time. his article was not there.' I was here the other night with M. I should like to go to the opera like this. he said to M. She approached him: "Good evening. who was smoking a cigar." Without a word." Duroy drew his two hundred francs together with twenty-eight francs for his article of the preceding day.

ambassadors. When he saw certain of his associates with their pockets full of money. and treated him as an inferior. quite at his ease in that shabby apartment. A gentle rap came at the door through which Mme." So one afternoon. tell me the news. to enter into the association. whose impassive. which was large. but I do not know whether she has risen. She replied in a flute-like voice and with the manner of a woman. would that please you?" He replied: "Certainly. The astonished mother murmured: "That is a conquest. In short he soon became a remarkable reporter. Forestier a visit. gracious smile attracted yet held at a distance. Examining him from head to foot. and seemed to say: "I like you. and she cried: "You may come in. cabmen. A maid answered his summons. Then a door opened and Mme.
. but the remembrance of their last meeting restrained him.CHAPTER V
26
ministers. But as he only received ten centimes a line in addition to his fixed salary of two hundred francs and as his expenses were large. de Marelle. We shall undoubtedly become good friends." She held out her hand to him with a gesture of delight. When near Mme. It was September. Greeks. poorly furnished. Madame is at home. he never had a sou. my darling. Walter said. he was appreciated. and with a serious air questioned her as to what she had done since they last met. or to kiss the hem of her garment. but was treated according to his rank. She exclaimed: "How kind of you to come to see me." The young man. princes. he dreamed of the conduct he might pursue. de Marelle had entered. to obtrude himself upon his comrades. The clock struck three. when he had nothing to do. saying: "I am always at home about three o'clock." They began to chat at once as if they were old acquaintances. clad in a Japanese dressing-gown. The shabby. Forestier himself no longer invited him to dinner. seated her by his side." She conducted Duroy into the drawing-room." The child entered. he wondered what secret means they employed in order to obtain it. was established between those two beings alike in character and kind." he felt a desire to cast himself at her feet. on the fourth floor. and in five minutes an intimacy. a mutual understanding. I was positive you had forgotten me. he proceeded toward her house. men of the world. waiters at cafes. the journalist rose. so M. kissed it as he had seen Norbert de Varenne do. police agents. de Marelle had invited him to call. of great value to the paper. Mme. Often at evening. and said: "Yes. de Marelle entered hastily. he felt a more passionate desire. advanced to Duroy and offered him her hand. and somewhat untidy. as he watched the trains pass his window. THE FIRST INTRIGUE Two months elapsed. Forestier. She lived on Rue Verneuil.
CHAPTER V
. It seems to me as if I had known you ten years. generals. Often he had thought of making Mme." with a smile more expressive than words. Above all he was dissatisfied with the mediocrity of his position. having kissed the child. yet take care. for there was not a trace visible of the care of a woman who loves her home. The fortune which Duroy had hoped to make so rapidly seemed to him slow in coming. and Duroy. He determined to penetrate that mystery. Suddenly the young woman said in surprise: "It is astonishing how I feel with you. When near Mme. and many others. He thought her very bewitching in her pretty gown. and make them share with him. Duroy took a seat and waited some time. threadbare chairs were ranged along the walls according to the servant's fancy. she cried: "How you have changed! Well.

however. in which the table was laid for four. upon the floor. if they did not fear that they would pay for a brief happiness with tears and an irremediable scandal?" Both women glanced at him approvingly. Forestier entered and shook hands with him with a cordiality he never evinced at the office." When the mother entered they were in the midst of an exciting game. "The two ladies will come together. that we shall meet there one of these days. I shall always be glad to welcome you. but it is not lively when we are only three. the time passes more pleasantly with her. crying: "Laurine playing? You are a sorcerer. The maid ushered him into the drawing-room and Laurine soon entered. monopolized the conversation." said he. usually so silent. silver. Mme. I know nothing about housekeeping or cooking. I hope. Why do I never meet you at the Forestiers?" "For no particular reason. as for us." "Not at all." Very soon the door opened and Mesdames Forestier and De Marelle appeared. I will keep you company. but Laurine. therefore I invite them to the cafe occasionally. Mme. kissed the lady's hand. we want nothing but champagne. Do you know the house?" Duroy accepted gladly. I am very busy. "These dinners are truly delightful.CHAPTER V
27
"Come often. He left her in a transport of delight and impatiently awaited the day of the dinner. I prefer a life free from care. When they were alone. surrounded by the charming mystery necessary to a rendezvous in a place so public. I do not like to have company at home. I am not so situated that I can have any. sir!" He placed the child. Duroy said: "When I love a woman. de Marelle lowered her voice and said: "I have a great project. de Marelle. the child between them. They tried to converse. who seemed not to have heard her. and said: "Mamma wishes me to ask you to wait for her about fifteen minutes. I should like you to be present at our Saturdays at the Cafe Riche at seven-thirty. I return it from time to time by inviting them to a restaurant."
. everything else in the world is forgotten." Forestier. you prefer Mme. I shall be enchanted to spend a quarter of an hour with you. "it has been a pleasant causerie." When the waiter handed the wine-list to Forestier. a dream of love. de Marelle. that table looked very inviting with its colored glasses. I am telling you this in order to explain such an informal gathering. de Marelle exclaimed: "Bring the gentle-men whatever they want. Forestier was very much amused by it. As Duroy greeted the former. and they seated themselves. and candelabra. and Mme. who was amused at the child's ceremonious manner." Duroy. for she is not dressed. she took him to task for not having been to see her. heavily veiled. replied: "Indeed. asked: "Do you object to my closing the window? My cough has troubled me for several days." In the course of a few days he paid another visit to the enchantress. whom he had caught in his arms. then she added with a smile: "Ah. Mademoiselle. The various courses were duly served and then the guests began to chat." His wife did not speak. He was the first to arrive at the place appointed and was shown into a small private room. de Marelle paused in amazement. Duroy seated himself upon a low bench. and her mother was compelled to send her to her room. They discussed a scandal which was being circulated about a society belle. Forestier cried with a sceptical laugh: "The poor husbands!" Then they talked of love. It is this: As I dine every week at the Foresters'. Duroy said with a smile: "How many would abandon themselves to a caprice." said Mme. she offered him not her hand but her forehead.

she could not tell anything without telling the whole truth! He was master of the situation!
. Finally she got out." He laid five francs upon the plate and handed the purse to its owner. she put her purse in his hand. I am unable to find the house. Of what was she thinking? Suddenly she moved her foot. de Marelle has no opinion on that subject. Let us go home. but the fear of scandal restrained him. The recollection of their conversation at dinner emboldened. Duroy alighted from the cab first and offered his hand to the young woman. Forestier murmured:. That movement caused him to tremble. he felt impelled to clasp her in his arms. what would she do?" thought he.'" Mme. and turned away with a triumphant." With those words she disappeared. de Marelle's opinion?" She shrugged her shoulders disdainfully and said: "M. "If I should dare. he growled angrily: "These parties are not good for me. all seemed to extenuate the bold sallies which issued from her lips. I do not know. He would have thought her asleep. Georges rang the bell. She tried to read it. de Marelle summoned the waiter and asked for her bill. and when the door was opened. de Marelle cried gaily as she drank a glass of champagne: "I am less Platonic. She uttered a cry. When the attack was over. whispered: "How much shall I give the waiter?" "Whatever you like. I love you. Duroy could think of nothing to say." At the same time. the modesty in her voice. saying: "Shall I escort you home?" "Certainly. but the figures danced before her eyes. she handed the paper to Duroy. but in silence. The carriage stopped at her door." They shook hands with the Forestiers and were soon rolling along in a cab side by side. Duroy gave the cabman a five-franc piece. she did not move. Mme. stunned by what had just taken place. Duroy glanced at the bill and when it was settled. "There is no happiness comparable to that first clasp of the hand. while Mme. what is M. had he not seen her eyes glisten whenever a ray of light penetrated the dark recesses of the carriage. de Marelle seemed to offer provocation by her remarks. pay it for me. they are stupid. But might one ask. he cast himself upon her. but she did not rise.CHAPTER V
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Mme. The total was one hundred and thirty francs." Forestier. The hostess and her guests lighted cigarettes. attempted to repulse him and then yielded to his caresses as if she had not the strength to resist. seeking her lips with his. said in serious tone: "That frankness does you honor and proves you to be a practical woman. Forestier's charming reserve." The conversation grew slow. Mme. de Marelle reclined silently in her corner. He had at last conquered a married woman! A woman of the world! A Parisian! How easy it had been! He was somewhat nervous the following day as he ascended Mme. nervously. How would she receive him? Suppose she forbade him to enter her house? If she had told--but no. he asked timidly: "When shall I see you again?" She whispered so low that he could barely hear her: "Come and lunch with me to-morrow. de Marelle's staircase. and turning quickly. when one asks: 'Do you love me?' and the other replies: 'Yes. lying upon the couch. in her smile." Mme. The dessert came and then followed the coffee. but Forestier suddenly began to cough. Fearing that the cabman would mistrust something. "Here. joyful air. I cannot see. impatiently.

de Marelle laughed." He urged her to tell him when she would come. delighted to see him." She took his arm as if he had been her husband." She laid her hand upon his lips. He thought: "It is easier than I thought it would be. as well as she always is. She was amused to see him implore so ardently and yielded a day at a time. and crying: "Ah. they returned to the drawing-room and resumed their seats on the couch side by side." was the reply.CHAPTER V The little maid-servant opened the door. sir." He looked at her with a smile. say--to-morrow. She was as pleasant as usual." He drew a deep breath. He rose: "I cannot sit so near you. incoherently: "You do not care for me. When the meal was finished. to-morrow at five o'clock. some one might come in. "Yes. He walked to the mantelpiece to see what kind of an appearance he presented: he was readjusting his cravat when he saw in the mirror the young woman standing on the threshold looking at him. He repeated: "To-morrow. She murmured: "It is Laurine. and he was ushered into the salon. All is well. "Bel-Ami! Laurine has christened you." The door opened: "Madame is served!" He offered her his arm gravely." She smiled: "That makes no difference. Duroy stammered. I shall come to see you and not your rooms. I shall lose my head. then they chatted together as calmly as if they had known one another for twenty years. Duroy felt reassured and asked: "Is Madame well?"
29
"Yes. I shall call you Bel-Ami.
. and led him to a couch." The child entered. without uttering a word. A ring caused them to start. she seemed to be waiting. "Be careful. It is a pretty name. and for several moments they gazed at one another in the mirror." Finally she consented. She had not moved." He whispered: "When can I see you alone to tell you how I love you?" She leaned toward him and said softly: "I will pay you a visit one of these days. while he besought her with glowing eyes to hasten the day. I sent Laurine to lunch with a friend. I adore you. and kissing her wrists said: "Thanks. "My rooms--are--are--very modest." He colored. He rushed toward her crying: "How I love you!" He clasped her to his breast. Then he turned.Ami!'" Mme." He sighed. They lunched without knowing what they were eating. they separated. then ran toward Duroy clapping her hands. She repeated: "Be silent!" They could hear the servant laying the table in the dining-room. She too smiled and murmured: "We are alone. He pretended not to have seen her. 'Bel. The servant came and went without seeming to notice anything. trying to put into his glance a wealth of love. upon which they seated themselves side by side. Gradually he drew nearer her and tried to embrace her. "Be silent!" "How I love you!" said he. She fixed a day in the following week. paused in surprise.

crying: "Did you hear?" Georges feigned ignorance of the matter. Just think. what?" "How they insulted me?" "Who?" "Those miserable people below. A man's angry voice cried: "What is the brat howling about?" A woman's voice replied: "Nicolas has been tripped up on the landing-place by the journalist's sweetheart. a noise on the staircase drew him to his door. at the same hour." with a smile and disappeared. At twenty minutes of three he rose to go to the office. sometimes in the morning. Early the next morning he bought a cake and a bottle of Madeira.CHAPTER V too!"
30
He took the child upon his knee. sometimes in the evening." She sobbed and could not speak." Duroy retreated." She repeated his words. de Marelle rushed in. he tried to render his apartments more fit to receive his expected visitor. but that will take some time. it would be necessary to go to court where you would be recognized." She said: "What shall we do? I cannot come here again. But there were a great many people on the stairs. lulled to rest by the whistling of the trains. to fight them. She wanted Duroy to go downstairs at once. When she was seated in the cab. When she grew calmer. she cried:" Adieu. no. He spread the collation on his dressing-table which was covered with a napkin. at the half-open door he whispered: "To-morrow. which he opened. he whispered: "Tuesday. Soon there was a knock at his door." He took her in his arms and kissed her hair. A child screamed. for he heard the rustling of skirts. He was forced to place her upon his bed and to lay a damp cloth upon her temples. it is nice here. As he was awaiting her one afternoon. do not worry about it. "No." Suddenly she said: "Listen to me. He replied: "They are working-people. For three weeks Duroy received Mme. Bel-Ami!" and the old coupe rumbled off. anger succeeded her agitation. An hour and a half later he escorted her to a cab-stand on the Rue de Rome." He replied: "That is very simple. to kill them. Then as the cabman started up his horse. I have found a means. and as it was night." She murmured: "Yes. one must not compromise oneself with such people. what is it? Tell me." "Why. and Mme. After he had finished his journalistic work. I will move. He was well satisfied with the results of his efforts and retired. She came at a quarter past five and exclaimed as she entered: "Why." The young woman replied: "Yes. Then he waited. de Marelle every two or three days. she kissed him. five o'clock. I will send you a 'little blue'
.

and curling-tongs. a sponge. I shall have to run into debt. a button." At five o'clock precisely he entered a large furnished house and asked the janitor: "Has Mme." He made a pretense of being angry: "I cannot permit that. he murmured: "She is kind-hearted. in case we should forget ours. We shall therefore not meet for a week. She was enchanted." She laid her hand upon his shoulder and said in a supplicatory tone: "Georges. Duroy thought uneasily: "This will cost a fortune. he asked: "Are you M. sir. anyway.hook." She called a telegram a "little blue. dear Georges. however. not daring to ask the question that hovered upon his lips. Ask for the room rented by Mme." He embraced her nervously. I rented the apartments for three months--in your name. CLO." and he yielded. Duroy opened it and read: "Come at five o'clock to Rue de Constantinople. my dear. for I could not give mine.
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He was still in bed the following morning when the promised telegram was handed him. Opening it she took out a tablet of soap. very much affected as she descended the staircase and leaned with all her strength upon her lover's arm. Duroy hired a room here?" "Yes. besides the one at the lodge. They met no one. it will give me pleasure to have the nest mine. "Is it not fine? There are no stairs to climb. She has done a very foolish thing. No. a bottle of Lubin's extract. She had placed a large package on the stand in the center of the room. What a bore." Then he asked: "Will you tell me when to pay?" She replied simply: "It is paid. Then she amused herself by finding places in which to put them." He opened a small suite. it is on the ground floor! One could come and go through the window without the porter seeing one. if you please?" The man. a box of hairpins. Duroy. Duroy?" "Certainly." The door opened and Clotilde rushed in. comprising two rooms on the ground floor. She talked incessantly as she opened the drawers: "I must bring some linen in order to have a change. which she would not reveal. When she had left him." "Will you show me to it. accustomed no doubt to situations in which it was necessary to be prudent. looked him straight in the eyes. Say that you do not care." Several days later he received a telegram which read: "My husband is coming home this evening.CHAPTER V to-morrow morning. my dearest!"
. We shall each have a key. then selecting a key. She was." She smiled with delight at her plans. of course. 127.

In fifteen minutes her curiosity was satisfied and he conducted her home. he rang for the porter. Still she persisted in her desire to go out. thank you." Duroy was startled. Clotilde's entrance caused a sensation on account of the elegance of her dress. he seized her hands and kissed them. At nine o'clock. I am nervous and out of sorts this evening. for he had exhausted all his resources and all means of obtaining money. "I shall go alone. he had not realized the fact that Mme. Then followed a series of visits to all sorts of places of amusement." "I should like to go to some restaurant frequented by the working." Having sent a boy with the note in order to save the money for a telegram. He waited until all of his associates had gone and when he was alone. then. I have left my purse at home and I have to dine at the Luxembourg. One morning he received the following telegram: "Five o'clock. Mme. put his hand in his pocket and said: "Foucart. darling. my darling. vexed. His opposition irritated her. I have been annoyed by business matters. Duroy rushed down the staircase and dined at a cookshop." He clasped her in his arms and murmured his apologies. Adieu!" Seeing that the situation was becoming grave.CHAPTER V "YOUR CLO.
. She wished to take a walk and he objected. wherever you wish to go. Jacques Rival three hundred. and he was hampered with innumerable petty debts ranging from twenty francs to one hundred sous. and asked: "After a while will you take me to dine?" "Certainly. I will not be the butt for your ill humor. de Marelle was married. saying: "Shall we dine together and afterward have a frolic?" He replied at once: "Impossible to dine. de Marelle. Duroy soon began to tire of those expeditions. he was left without a sou in his pocket. kissed him passionately. Lend me fifty sous to pay for my cab. They partook of a ragout of mutton and left that place to enter a ball-room in which she pressed more closely to his side." They repaired to a wine merchant's where meals were also served. whom he awaited in the tiny salon. arrived." Taking the coins." Somewhat appeased but still. In addition to that he owed Forestier a hundred francs. As he had often done before. On the fourteenth of December."
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When they met." The man handed him three francs and asked: "Is that enough?" "Yes. saying: "Pardon me.classes. she rushed into his arms.--CLO. and spent the afternoon working at the office." then he added: "But I will expect you at our apartments at nine o'clock. He impatiently awaited her husband's departure. de Marelle. she replied: "That does not concern me. At four o'clock he received a telegram from Mme. he tried to think of some way by which he could obtain his evening meal. he did not lunch.

"I shall have to starve for the next six months." He ate his lunch. suddenly it occurred to him that Mme. Say yes. He replied with dignity: "You are very kind. and on entering the office of "La Vie Francaise" he repaid the porter the three francs he had borrowed from him." He insisted: "I have a reason. evaded his caresses and tried to escape from his encircling arms." They parted.CHAPTER V "I beseech you. for which he paid two francs fifty. she asked: "Shall we meet again the day after to. Adieu!" She disengaged herself from his embrace and fled to the door. it wounds me." She murmured: "You will never know how much I love you.franc piece! At first he wondered by what miracle it had got there. and he
. He went out and as he passed the restaurants he could scarcely resist their temptations. he determined to return it when next they met. dearest. and in order to avoid a rupture. I shall go alone. Then she fell upon his breast: "Oh. but had run himself into debt. my poor darling! Had I known! How did it happen?"
33
He invented a touching story to this effect: That his father was in straitened circumstances. my little Clo. she said: "You lie! What is it?" He colored. that he had given him not only his savings." "Shall I lend you some?" she whispered. He worked until seven o'clock." she replied. "I have a reason--" Looking him in the face. "I will not yield to your caprices. he was amazed to find in it a piece of money--a twenty." "No. listen to me--" She shook her head. that will not hinder me from returning the money to-morrow. then he dined. When Duroy opened his bedroom door and fumbled in his vest pocket for a match. At noon he said: "Bah. confessed in accents of despair: "I have no money!" She would not believe him until he had turned all his pockets inside out. but do not mention that again. my darling. He followed her: "Listen Clo.morrow?" "Certainly. remain here by the fire with me. I shall lunch upon Clotilde's twenty francs." "At the same time?" "Yes. The next morning it was late when he awoke. he tried to overcome his hunger. de Marelle had given him alms! Angry and humiliated. to prove his words." On taking leave of him. a serious reason--" "If you will not go with me.

Mme. de Marelle said to him: "Would you believe that I have never been to the Folies-Bergeres. Suddenly she said: "There is a large brunette who stares at us all the time." With flaming eyes." He told an untruth. One evening." in a low voice and with a wink which said "I understand. She continued: "Have you grown deaf since Thursday?" Still he did not reply. but I will repay you when we next meet." But he had not replied. for he had noticed the woman. to see of what those beings were made. Duroy continued to accept money from Clotilde and quieted his conscience by assuring himself: "I will give it back in a lump. The woman. is that so! Because you are with another is no reason that you cannot
. Then she was determined to be recognized and she remained near their box. for Mme." So he kept account of all that he received in order to pay it back some day. They spent the evening together and appointed their next meeting for Wednesday of the following week. followed the couple and said in a louder key: "Good evening. she cried: "Ah. If she should see me. and she felt an irresistible desire to touch them. I will not return the money to-day. fearing a meeting with Rachel. How are you?" But Georges did not turn his head. de Marelle upon her arrival: "I found the twenty-franc piece you slipped into my pocket. and said: "Good evening. she touched Duroy's shoulder with the tip of her finger. for fear of being seen by his sweetheart he passed her coldly.CHAPTER V
34
continued to draw upon the twenty francs until only four francs twenty remained." When Madame came. will you take me there?" He hesitated. she was interested in watching the women who were promenading. de Marelle had a number of engagements. too? Perhaps Madame has your tongue?" With a furious glance. we would have a box. you are mistaken. de Marelle did not look at the stage. she would take in the situation and not accost me. who was no other than Rachel. it was crowded. I think every minute she will speak to us. he dared not broach the delicate subject. It is nothing but borrowed money anyway." When they entered the hall. disdainfully. Duroy had passed her when he and Mme. with difficulty they made their way to their seats." He paid no heed to her. Duroy then exclaimed: "How dare you accost me? Go along or I will have you arrested. When she saw that she was observed by Mme. Have you seen her?" He replied: "No. Moreover. She laughed angrily and cried: "Are you dumb. awaiting a favorable moment. Georges. her jealousy aroused. I am not married after all. Then he thought: "Bah. Mme. with anger in her eyes and violent words upon her lips. de Marelle. de Marelle entered and she had said to him: "Good evening. He decided to say to Mme.

It is not my fault. I would not have molested you. oh. little one!" and the cab moved on. my God! You gave her my money--did you not? I gave him the money--for that woman--oh. and taking two francs fifty from it.CHAPTER VI
35
recognize me. Georges was about to follow her but she commanded: "I forbid you to follow me. and opening the door. then repeated: "A gaming debt." "Is it large?" "Five hundred francs. I knew that woman--long ago--" She raised her head and with the fury of a betrayed woman. bade them desist. the wretch!" For several moments she seemed to be vainly seeking an epithet more forcible. The cabman asked: "Where shall I drive to?" Duroy replied: "Where you will!" Clotilde sobbed hysterically." in a voice so loud that the passers-by crowded around her. she cried disconnectedly: "Ah. His friend received him in his study. She drew out her purse.
.
CHAPTER VI
. and Duroy dared not stir for fear of a scandal. "Stop!" she cried. If you had made the least sign of recognition when you passed me. he sought Forestier. At length he stammered: "Listen Clo--my dearest Clo. "A very serious matter. A STEP UPWARD The next morning Georges Duroy arose. let me explain. dressed himself." He only needed two hundred and eighty. "What made you rise so early?" he asked. she handed it to the cabman. Duroy rushed after her. but Duroy. Rachel." During that tirade Mme. saying aloud: "Here is the money for your hour. and together he and Clotilde reached the street. de Marelle in affright opened the door of the box and fled through the crowd seeking an exit. and determined to have money. you miserable fellow--what a rascal you are! Is it possible? What disgrace. They entered a cab. one man said: "Bravo. seeing him disappear. Duroy did not know what to say or do. I have a debt of honor. cried: "Stop her! she has stolen my lover!" Two men seized the fugitive by the shoulder. Suddenly leaning forward she grasped the cabman's sleeve. who had caught up with her." "A gaming debt?" He hesitated. she alighted. followed by the jeers of the bystanders. You did not even say good evening to me when you met me. Take that rascal to Rue Boursault at Batignolles!" The crowd applauded.

while with me it would be a communion of souls. and I did not wish to love you any more. only a little. I cease all intercourse with people who love me or pretend to. fair and plump. and he thought: "She is certainly nicer than the other one." He did not doubt that he would only have to extend his hand in order to gather the fruit. My dear friend. I know that your love is only a kind of appetite. as I would upon a mad dog. he kept what he had begged and muttered: "I shall not worry about it. nor flattered. As he gazed upon her she chided him for his neglect of her. because they bore me. He called upon Mme. she was a charming blonde. de Marelle last week and I know what they have christened you at her house. and secondly." For two weeks he lived economically. but at the end of that time. Forestier. it
. she smiled indifferently and replied calmly: "Oh. a little. If you had confessed your fears to me sooner. look me in the face--" she no longer smiled. de Carleville. made Duroy's existence at the office insupportable. but no more. out of health and feeble. but determined to be avenged. "I know the gentleman! If you want twenty francs you can have them. the good resolutions he had formed vanished. Now. no one loves me long. until he felt his cheeks tingle and he left the hall. Forestier. He replied: "I did not come because it was for the best--" "How? Why?" "Why? Can you not guess?" "No!" "Because I loved you. a man in love is not only foolish but dangerous. and I tell them so at once. "To--to--a--M." She did not seem surprised. called upon more friends." "Why not?" "Because it is useless. because I look upon them with dread.CHAPTER VI Forestier asked sceptically: "To whom do you owe that amount?" Duroy did not reply at once. He found her reclining upon a couch. and by five o'clock had collected eighty francs. and one evening he returned to the Folies Bergeres in search of Rachel. I will pay it when I can. I would have reassured you."
36
Duroy took the gold-piece. The latter did not reply to his rude remarks. "I will never be your sweetheart." He took a seat near his hostess and glanced at her curiously. but the woman was implacable and heaped coarse insults upon him. you can come just the same. She held out her hand without rising and said: "Good morning." "Ah. firstly. where does he live?" "Rue--Rue--" Forestier laughed. As he required two hundred more. reading. made for caresses. Bel-Ami!" "Why do you call me by that name?" She replied with a smile: "I saw Mme.

he said: "If you ever become a widow. Duroy did not like to call on Mme. But be guarded as to your compliments. placing her hand upon his arm. you are an angel--a guardian angel. why should he not profit by that show of favor to call at his house? One day. for he had never been invited. The reception-rooms were on the first floor. "May I speak freely?" "Yes. he repaired to the market and bought twenty-five pears. Walter. Madame. one took Duroy's overcoat. Walter lived on Boulevard Malesherbes in a double house which he owned. and in a soft voice. M. to do with as you will" He kissed her hands and raising his head said: "If I had found a woman like you. And now that I have explained." She was touched by those words. and delighted to be able to form such an alliance as she proposed. how gladly would I have married her." Having observed the effect of his last compliment. Walter thanks M. Notwithstanding the assurance he had gained during his life in Paris. Georges Duroy very much. In the antechamber were two footmen.CHAPTER VI is therefore useless for you to persist in your efforts. He stammered: "Madame. He passed through two drawing-rooms and entered a small boudoir in which four ladies were gathered around a tea-table. and especially since he had been thrown in contact with so many noted personages. You are not diplomatic--" she hesitated." The following day he found in his letter-box at the office an envelope containing Mme. The manager had been kind to him. he extended both hands." "Call upon Mme. therefore. Walter's door with his card on which was inscribed: "Georges Duroy begs Mme. the other his cane." As he took his leave. and is at home on Saturdays. employed him to do difficult work. and he did not wish to commit a breach of etiquette. he asked again: "Are we friends--is it settled?" "It is." The next Saturday he called. for she is virtuous. Having carefully arranged them in a basket to make them appear as if they came from a distance he took them to Mme. Duroy. I know that your position at the office is unsatisfactory. Walter who has taken a fancy to you. Duroy felt abashed. You will make a better impression there by being careful in your remarks. Walter's card on which was written: "Mme." He said: "Thanks. opened a door and announced the visitor's name. In the large mirror in the apartment Duroy could see the reflection of people seated in another room." The mistress of the house extended her hand and said to him: "You are very kind. M. put it aside. to come to see
. saying: "I am yours. shall we be friends?"
37
He knew that that sentence was irrevocable. Walter to accept the fruit which he received this morning from Normandy. she said: "I am going to begin my offices at once. I have put in my application!" Then he left the room hastily in order not to allow her time to be angry. all their employees are treated alike. appreciated his services. but do not worry. I took the liberty.

he only occupies a minor position. the largest. The day of the dinner-party he left the office in good season. every movement of their hands and heads. and breathed more freely. lighted by bronze lamps. Mme. He was busy two days getting settled in his new position. but I think he will advance rapidly." He felt both nervous and gay. January 20. The "Echoes" were. Sacristi. one end of which he occupied. he was mistaken. quick to judge of what was best to be said and best to be omitted." Occasionally he wrote home. he boldly entered the antechamber. At first twelve hundred francs were allowed Duroy. He crossed the street in order to see the lady's face. always on his guard. the faces of his father and mother." She pointed to a chair. eating their soup. The following week he was appointed editor of the "Echoes. the very pith of the paper. Laroche-Mathieu. Duroy walked gaily down Boulevard Malesherbes. He saw them seated at their homely board. the arts.CHAPTER VI
38
me. M. Everything and everybody should be remembered. the army. All the salons were lighted. and gave his cane and his overcoat to the two lackeys who approached him. who worked with him. On reaching his destination. Then he sought the cashier to settle the important question of his salary. in a large room. and Mme. Visitors came and went. he even knew what they said to each other every evening as they supped. Mme. and said aloud to himself: "I must write to my father." thought he. As he tied his cravat at the mirror he repeated: "I must write home to-morrow. Walter said." and invited to dine at Mme.
. He felt his cheeks glow and his heart throb. He had often wondered what he should do if he met Clotilde face to face. that no one addressed him. when he received an engraved card which read: "M. and the other end of which was allotted to Boisrenard. to divine what would please the public and to present it well. The man at the head of that department should be wide awake. She greeted Duroy with a charming smile. and the courtiers. Walter request the pleasure of M. all professions. the latter had especial authority at the office on account of his influence in the chamber of deputies. Duroy was just the man for the place. and she drew him into the conversation which dealt with the admission of a certain M. Firmin and M. Walter replied: "One of our reporters. and his letters always delighted his old parents. Should he bow to her or pretend not to see her? "I should not see her. Georges Duroy's company at dinner on Thursday. Walter received in the second. He was enjoying the fact of his promotion. If my father could see me this evening in the house to which I am going. When Duroy entered his rooms he thought: "I must change my apartments. I shall soon give a dinner which has never been equaled!" Then he recalled his old home. The ladies chatted on. Walter noticed that Duroy said nothing." His toilette completed. Linet to the Academy. one of the ladies said: "How odd he is! Who is he?" Mme. M." He was so delighted that he kissed the invitation as if it had been a love-letter. he would be surprised. and was walking along Rue de Londres when he saw before him a form which resembled Mme. that he seemed disconcerted. the rulers. the clergy. he extinguished his light and descended the stairs. and he shook hands with two men who arrived after him. all countries. while he was being discussed. Paris and the provinces. When Duroy had taken his leave. He remembered every wrinkle on their old faces. Walter's. who intended to save a large share of the money. in order to have time to dress." In the meantime. these will not do any longer. the schools. He thought: "I will go to see them some day. de Marelle's.

he dared not turn to go away. and that embarrassing silence which precedes dinners in general reigned supreme. very handsome!"
. She offered him her hand. she is handsome. and he saw women. Norbert de Varenne and Jacques Rival came together.'" He was surprised and with difficulty restrained a burst of laughter. the other pretty. "An Execution." Madame de Marelle was very near him. de Marelle who had just entered. Suddenly to his amazement. do you not remember me?" He turned upon his heel hastily. her eyes overflowing with roguishness and affection. "Patte Blanche? I fancied her a young woman like you. she stood before him smiling. de Marelle was there." He stammered: "Certainly. They shook hands upon being introduced and seated themselves at a table set apart for them. It was to introduce him to a friend who was on the point of giving a fete. "A Visit to the Hospital. he hastened toward her." Their conversation was interrupted by the entrance of a large woman. one plain. Madame. but that is no excuse for forgetting your friends. behind him. A door opened at the end of the room. and M. Walter said: "You are looking at my pictures? I will show them all to you. Duroy asked Mme. what would people think? He was so ill at ease that at one time he thought he should feign indisposition and return home. fearing some perfidy. M. M. a great deal to do. but Duroy saw nothing--heard without comprehending. Walter entered with two tall young girls of sixteen and seventeen. she exclaimed: "Good evening. while Duroy recommenced alone an examination of the canvas. he took it doubtfully. he murmured: "I have had a great deal to do. "A Widow. Duroy exclaimed: "Charming." by Jean Paul Laurens. certainly. red cheeks. Charles had become very much emaciated and coughed incessantly." by Bouguereau. Duroy knew that the manager was a paterfamilias." by Gervex. char--" but stopped short on hearing behind him the voice of Mme. might she not turn her back upon him or utter some insulting remark? If he did not approach her. M.CHAPTER VI
39
Then the Forestiers arrived. decollette. Madeleine looking charming in pink. Forestier called him. Mme. charming. Madame." And he took a lamp that they might distinguish all the details. with red arms. Walter placed the lamp on the table and greeted the last arrival. Duroy happening to glance at the walls. too. He had thought of the manager's daughters as one thinks of a distant country one will never see. as if he could not tear himself away. and many others. Then. he had fancied them children." "I know. As she was received with effusion. She continued calmly: "What has become of you? One never sees you!" Not having regained his self-possession. One of the guests had not arrived. whose nom de plume is 'Patte Blanche. Bel-Ami. Walter has given me another position and the duties are very arduous. What should he do? If he greeted her. but he was astonished. Mme. M. and attired in gay colors. There were landscapes by Guillemet. Forestier: "Who is that person?" "Viscountess de Percemur. Is that Patte Blanche? Ah. What should he do? He heard their voices and their conversation. The pictures had all been exhibited. and who wanted a description of it in "La Vie Francaise. Walter continued to exhibit and explain his pictures.

de Marelle. She responded as her mother would have done." "Why not?" "Because M. Mlle. Walter's right sat Viscountess de Percemur. fearing no rivalry on the newspaper. yes! Is he not considered one of the most capable men in the Chamber?" "That may be. Wishing. and Duroy. Gradually. sir!"
. perfectly. he knew that their relations would be renewed. as he descended the staircase. She is sixty years old. asked Mme. their work being essentially different." "Is she like the Countess?" "No. however. in order to make some remark. without any hesitation as to what she should say. since all must come to an end?" He paused. they are dead. leaves me at my door every time that I dine here. and Duroy said with a smile: "You are gloomy to-night. Still. All those people are divided between money and politics. Ah. wit of the time of the Restoration. who is my neighbor. to be polite to his employer's daughter. "Shall we walk along together?" "I shall be pleased to. although she appeared at ease and conversed with her usual spirit. At first the two men did not speak." replied Duroy. But she is just as comical. it is difficult to find a man who is liberal in his ideas! I have known several. In a kingdom of blind men the blind are kings. Laroche-Mathieu looks very intelligent. looking at her with a smile. The streets were almost deserted that night.CHAPTER VI A servant appeared at the door and announced: "Madame is served. and Mme."
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Duroy was placed between the manager's plain daughter. they are pedants to whom it is impossible to speak of anything that is familiar to us. The old poet took his arm. Duroy asked Mme. too. Then Duroy. what difference does a little more or a little less genius make." When the guests returned to the drawing-room." The old poet murmured: "Do you think so?" The younger man hesitated in surprise: "Why." They parted without another word. Duroy did not remain late. Rose. he was very friendly to the young man. Laroche-Mathieu. his assurance returned. he met Norbert de Varenne. and before the meal was over. The proximity of the latter embarrassed him somewhat." "When shall I see you again?" "Lunch with me to-morrow. said: "That M. Baroness de Livar. de Marelle: "May I escort you home?" "No. who was likewise going away. he addressed her from time to time. has false curls and teeth. and toilettes of the same period. At M. de Marelle in a low voice: "Do you know the one who signs herself 'Domino Rose'?" "Yes.

I will have the Forestiers. Duroy felt somewhat depressed on leaving Varenne. young man. and live according to your age. de Marelle. What do you long for? Love? A few kisses and you will be powerless. It is so lonesome. you make me shudder. eat. I have already spoken of you to him.CHAPTER VI
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The poet replied: "I always am. children. but on his way a perfumed damsel passed by him and recalled to his mind his reconciliation with Mme." On Monday as he ascended Mme. I am a lonely. and this is how I have arranged matters: Come to dinner Monday. sir. sister." He stopped. and you will see life from a different standpoint. I anticipated a delightful honeymoon and now my husband has come home for six weeks. I seem to have no one upon earth. not that he disliked to take her husband's hand. I will introduce you to M. a glance. de Marelle. one sees the descent and the end which is death. the poet halted before a high house. I would rather not meet your husband. I have only poetry. drink his wine. he feared he might betray something by a word. While one is climbing the ladder. my beloved. I will come to dinner Monday. one sees the top and feels hopeful. but one descends rapidly. At your age one is joyous. you will be too in a few years. We breathe." "To make it more pleasant. He stammered: "No. one hopes for many things which never come to pass." Duroy laughed: "Egad. pressed Duroy's hand and said: "Forget what I have said to you. M." Duroy hesitated in perplexity. especially after our little disagreement. advanced toward him and said courteously: "My wife has often spoken of you. I have neither father. months. took Duroy by his coat collar and said slowly: "Ponder upon all that. and years. grave and precise. de Marelle's staircase. He was ushered into the salon and he waited as usual. rang the bell. brother. but later on you will remember what I have told you. wife. sleep. I am charmed to make your acquaintance." "Very well. de Marelle put
. and eat his bread. think it over for days." Duroy tried to appear cordial and shook his host's proffered hand with exaggerated energy. he felt strangely troubled." Norbert de Varenne continued: "You do not understand me now. When one is old it is a comfort to have children. and a tall man with a white beard." When they reached Rue de Bourgogne. drink. you do not know what it is to live alone at my age. It is slow work ascending. my friend. one expects nothing but death." "Why not? How absurd! Such things happen every day. Then the door opened. But I could not let so long a time go by without seeing you. Money? What for? To gratify your desires. Marry. How delightful was the realization of one's hopes! The next morning he arrived at his lady-love's door somewhat early. nor God. but when one has reached that summit. but he dreaded something. and said as she kissed him: "You do not know how annoyed I am. Glory? What comes after it all? Death! Death alone is certain. At mine. I did not think you so foolish. and then die! The end of life is death. old man. mother. my child. though I do not like to receive company at home. he knew not what. work. she welcomed him as if there had been no rupture. Adieu!" With those words he disappeared in the dark corridor. young man.

" Duroy asked: "Does she help him very much?" "She does all the work. with a shake of his head: "He will not live long. he is doomed! He was a lucky man to obtain such a wife. Charles lay upon a sofa and repeated: "I should have gone a month ago. Laurine entered next. de Marelle replied calmly: "No. are we not? If you should require my services in any way." The child blushed as if it were a gross indiscretion to reveal her secret. the Count returned his salutation courteously but somewhat haughtily. do not hesitate to call upon me. serious and dignified." As Duroy descended the staircase. Forestier accompanied him to the door and he reminded her of their compact. de Marelle. he said they would leave for Cannes on the following Thursday at the doctor's orders. He gazed at M. When the Forestiers arrived. after they had left. she is well posted on every subject. Walter. Everyone should make that a rule. Send me a dispatch or a letter and I will obey." M. and offered her brow to Georges." Mme. old fellow. I shall not forget. she is as maneuvering as anyone! She is a treasure to a man who wishes to succeed.CHAPTER VI a log upon the fire and asked: "Have you been engaged in journalism a long time?"
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Duroy replied: "Only a few months. They did not stay late. and she always gains her point. "We are friends and allies. At that moment Mme. although everything had been arranged with M. and felt a desire to laugh aloud." Then he proceeded to give Duroy innumerable orders." Mme. he began to consider the situation very amusing. as she wants it." She murmured: "Thank you. Her mother said to her: "You do not call M." Duroy took his leave with a heavy heart. He had grown thinner and paler in a week and coughed incessantly. When Georges left him. he pressed his comrade's hand and said: "Well. The next day he called on the Forestiers. and found them in the midst of packing." His embarrassment wearing off. The Count seemed sad--perhaps at the approaching departure. he met M. Duroy was startled at Charles's appearance. we shall soon meet again. de Vaudrec ascending. who in the presence of her husband dared not kiss her hand.
. and when she wants it! Oh. Duroy Bel-Ami to-day. de Marelle said impatiently: "You infer so many things that I do not like! We should never interfere in the affairs of others. Duroy said. I have no doubt." "Yes! I should not even be surprised if she had some one in view--a deputy! but I do not know anything about it. The journalist bowed. de Marelle entered and approached Duroy." Georges replied: "She will marry very soon again.

Walter and Jacques Rival considered that sufficient. but she has not been arrested. she told me the particulars of her dispute with a butcher as to the weight of some cutlets. was a myth. and it was decided that it should be published in that day's issue. and reply. that report has no foundation. GEORGES DUROY." M." But. moreover. As for the other insinuations I scorn them. when they are written under a mask. who is sixty years old at least. "La Plume. the manager bade him go to the woman's house himself." "Relative to what?" "To the arrest of one Dame Aubert. After hearing the case. Walter's office." attacked him constantly. As Saint-Potin entered. which dispute necessitated an explanation before a magistrate. Duroy set out upon his errand and on his return to the office. or rather attacked the editor of the "Echoes" of "La Vie Francaise. One never should reply to such things. she is no myth. wrote the following: "An anonymous writer in 'La Plume' is trying to pick a quarrel with me on the subject of an old woman who. here is another unpleasant remark for you." "What should I do? It is no direct attack. Duroy asked him: "Have you seen the paragraph in 'La Plume'?" "Yes." "See. I have myself seen Dame Aubert. Boisrenard handed him a number of "La Plume." Duroy went at once to M. which I deny. he claims. An insignificant paper." Only one matter arose to annoy him." Jacques Rival said to him one day: "You are very forbearing.
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CHAPTER VII
. otherwise his sky was cloudless. Duroy. That is the whole truth in a nutshell. The latter retaliated by accusing Duroy of receiving bribes and of suppressing matter that should be published. A DUEL WITH AN END Charles's absence gave Duroy a more important position on "La Vie Francaise. to the article. and I have just come from Dame Aubert's. was arrested for disorderly conduct. had written an item claiming that Dame Aubert who.CHAPTER VII On Thursday evening the Forestiers left town. find out the details." claimed." Georges took the paper and read a scathing personal denunciation.
. it seems. had been put under arrest. one afternoon when he entered the office. as the editor of "La Plume.

and having read the insulting paragraph. He ran his eyes over the columns and at first saw nothing. that a woman named Aubert exists. Louis Langremont. he thought it more aggressive in print than it was in writing. He might. Duroy of 'La Vie Francaise' gives us the lie! In doing so." "Good! Come and exercise while I attend to everything. What would this opponent reply? Who was he? Why that attack? He passed a restless night. it seemed to him. M. The manager continued: "Go at once in search of Rival. have softened certain terms." he said gravely. He was well satisfied with Duroy's use of the weapons. Two words only remain to be added to the word 'agent." "Are you a good swordsman?" "No." The young man did not reply. and told him to remain there and practice until noon. and he returned home in order to dress himself. shaven. "Come with me. washed. but he rose when the bell rang. Why had he been insulted? For nothing! On account of an old woman who had quarreled with her butcher. Walter was reading "La Plume. said: "Whom would you like to have besides me?" "I do not know. when he would return to take him to lunch and tell him the result of his mission. Jacques was still in bed. He produced a pair of pistols and began to give his orders as briefly as if they were on the dueling ground. He had been insulted and in such a manner that it was impossible to hesitate." He entered his dressing-room and soon reappeared." Duroy stammered several vague words and set out for Rival's house." said he. "you cannot let that pass. although it was scarcely eight o'clock. and he led Duroy into a cellar converted into a room for the practice of fencing and shooting. He dressed hastily and repaired to M." "I sign myself." "A good shot?" "I have used a pistol a good deal.' which are 'of morals' and all is told. He was excited all day and feverish during-the night. on perceiving Duroy." "Boisrenard?" "Yes.CHAPTER VII
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Duroy returned home rather agitated and uneasy. Left to his own devices. he lies. He rose early to obtain an issue of "La Plume" which should contain the reply to his note. Walter's house. But the consciences of certain journalists are on a par with their talents. however." "Well. who will look after your interests. He was beginning to breathe more freely when these words met his eye: "M. and presentable. He lived on the ground floor. Duroy aimed at the target several times and then sat down to reflect. and that she was taken before a magistrate by an agent.
. Wait a moment. He owns." Georges's heart throbbed violently. When he re-read his article in the paper the next morning.

with such rapidity that his brain whirled and he scarcely knew what was taking place. the sound of his voice made him start. All had been settled without his saying a word. it was so changed.CHAPTER VII
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Such affairs were abominable anyway! What would a respectable man gain by risking his life? And he recalled Norbert de Varenne's remarks. He was thirsty. Still he felt so deeply moved that he wondered if one could be afraid in spite of oneself. Duroy was silent." Nothing more! Who was the man? How old was he? How tall? How did he look? How odious that a total stranger should without rhyme or reason. Langremont has accepted every condition. fire when the pistol is leveled and the order given. and began to pace the floor once more. Twenty-five paces. his heart gave a bound and he stammered: "Ah--thank you!" Rival continued: "M. where the meeting was to take place. lighted a fire. voices. certainly he was not. in case of accident. saying mechanically: "I must be more composed. Why did his heart palpitate so wildly at the slightest sound? He began to reason philosophically on the possibility of being afraid. What would happen if that state of things should exist? If he should tremble or lose his presence of mind? He lighted his candle and looked in the glass. and Jacques Rival reappeared accompanied by Boisrenard. The former cried on perceiving Duroy: "All is settled!" Duroy thought the matter had terminated with a letter of apology. He turned from his right side to his left uneasily. as gloomy as in a tomb. He began to feel nervous. he rose. Before leaving. I will write to my parents. he drank a glass of water and laid down. What o'clock was it? The time dragged slowly on. He had thrown upon his table his adversary's card brought him by Rival. No. "He was right!" he declared aloud. where he worked in an absent. When he was alone. who had not left him all day. he was too confused to think. and as something might happen--"
." They repaired to a neighboring restaurant. He ate that they might not think he was frightened. he felt restless "Am I afraid?" he asked himself. He hastened to the window and opened it. 176 Rue Montmartre. It was gloomy in that cellar. annoy him thus on account of an old. Suddenly he heard footsteps. made to him a short while before. mechanical manner. since he was ready to fight. it is past twelve o'clock. he scarcely recognized his own face. giving his opinion. out of pure caprice. One thought alone filled his mind and that was: a duel to-morrow! He sat down and began to meditate. He read it for the twentieth time that day: "Louis LANGREMONT." He took a sheet of paper and after several attempts began: "My dear father and mother:" "At daybreak I am going to fight a duel. accepting or refusing. He returned home about nine o'clock in the evening after having dined with Boisrenard. and went in the afternoon with Boisrenard to the office. he paced the floor. Jacques Rival shook hands with him and warned him that he and Boisrenard would call for him in a carriage the next morning at seven o'clock to repair to the wood at Vesinet. but the night air was so chilly that he closed it. woman's quarrel with her butcher! He said aloud: "The brute!" and glared angrily at the card." Then he added: "Now let us lunch." He turned to his couch and saw himself stretched lifeless upon it. Suddenly he thought: "To-morrow at this time I may be dead.

possessed. although the doctor related a number of anecdotes. He wondered if his adversary had ever fought before. Rival said: "Dr." as he entered the carriage. Rival and Boisrenard alighted first. Rival took the box of pistols. they were wrapped in furs. led him to the ground set apart for the duel. and bald. He loaded them. Dr. he would not have accepted that dangerous weapon without hesitation. if he had not been a remarkable shot. who wore glasses. His friends had come." Duroy shook hands with him and stammered: "Thank you. Jacques Rival returned and said in a low voice: "All is ready. but he was haunted continually by the fear of showing his feelings or of losing his self-possession. Fortune has favored us in the drawing of the pistols. Was he afraid? He did not know. As he muttered the phrases over and over. and with Boisrenard approached the two strangers. That was his adversary. he fetched it from the cupboard and soon emptied it. Suddenly he remembered that he had a bottle of brandy." "Are you calm?" "Very calm. he rose with a shudder. The conversation flagged. The box is sealed." "Have you eaten and drunk something?" "I do not need anything. They helped him off with his overcoat. and the coachman drove off. He ground his teeth to prevent his crying aloud. Is all well?" "Yes. However. if he were known? He had never heard his name." They descended the stairs. he almost prayed that some accident might happen to the carriage. Now he felt his blood course more warmly through his veins. Duroy repeated those directions as children learn their lessons in order to impress them upon his memory. He began to dress. he took more brandy. he would not have the strength necessary to face the meeting. It seemed to him that notwithstanding his efforts. After shaking hands. He knew where to go. Rival addressed him. Le Brument. Le Brument asked Duroy: "Do you feel well? Do you not want anything?" "Nothing. "I have found a means." Duroy replied mechanically: "Thank you. Rival said: "It is as cold as Siberia. thank you. then walk through the glade together as they counted the paces. then the doctor and the combatant. when his heart failed him.CHAPTER VII
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He could write no more. Duroy tried to appear self." It seemed to him that he was asleep. At length there was a knock at the door. Before him stood a man." That was a matter of indifference to Duroy. A voice broke the silence--a voice which came from afar: "Are you
. and gave him his pistol. that he might make no mistakes. Day broke. A gentleman was seated in the carriage. Duroy saw them greet one another ceremoniously. stout." Then Rival proceeded to give him minute directions. short. who were advancing toward them. if he could only break his leg! At the end of a glade he saw a carriage standing and four gentlemen stamping their feet in order to keep them warm. saying: "I took the pistols to Gastine Renette." said he. and he was obliged to gasp in order to get breath. Jacques Rival and Boisrenard followed him. Rival alone replied to him. that he was dreaming.

it was handed to Duroy who was to insert it in the "Echoes. and there was a small white cloud above his head." Langremont was not wounded either. All was over! What bliss! He felt brave enough to provoke anyone. but I cannot enter that horrible house of yours! What can we do?" He asked abruptly: "How much do you pay here?"
. "Bravo! you have defended the colors of 'La Vie Francaise'! Bravo!" The following day at eleven o'clock in the forenoon. his opponent was still standing in the same position. my love. and Mme. Tell me what took place on the ground. sirs?" Georges cried: "Yes. How brave you are. I think not. Duroy received a telegram: "My God! I have been frightened. he only knew that he raised his arm and pressed with all his strength upon the trigger. Clo. When he had concluded. no. de Marelle rushed into his arms. He said to Rival: "We only fired once!" The latter smiled: "Yes--once--once each--that makes twice!" And Duroy. and asked anxiously: "Are you wounded?" He replied: "No. I often have an hour early in the morning when I could come and embrace you. All was over! He felt that he could fight the entire universe. I slept very well. Soon he saw a little smoke before him. saw nothing more. and with my husband in Paris it is not very convenient. one either misses or kills one's opponent" Duroy was paralyzed with surprise and joy." The same voice commanded: "Fire!"
47
Duroy heard nothing more. then the duelists and their friends entered the carriages and drove off. satisfied with that explanation." Duroy was obliged to give her a detailed account." Forthwith he proceeded to give her a graphic description of the duel. M. All was over! His second and the doctor felt him. They had both fired. my darling. tell me all about it. Walter embraced him. and Jacques Rival muttered discontentedly: "That is always the way with those cursed pistols. The seconds consulted several moments. I adore you. she said to him: "I cannot live without you! I must see you. asked no more questions. unbuttoned his garments." "I should not have closed my eyes.CHAPTER VII ready." He was surprised to find that two balls had been fired. Come at once to Rue de Constantinople that I may embrace you. if you only knew how I felt when I read the morning papers! Tell me. covering him with kisses. "Oh." He repaired to the place appointed. "You must have had a terrible night before the duel!" "Why. When the official report was drawn up.

"Indeed?" "Yes.CHAPTER VII "One hundred francs a month." Indignantly he cried: "Never. that will end all between us forever. I will take the apartments on my own account. my dearest." "Very well." He asked in surprise: "Why not?" "Because!" "That is no reason. Mine are not suitable anyway for me now. you have made a conquest." He protested. after lavishing upon him innumerable caresses.
. tenderly: "Because you would bring others here. This is our nest--ours alone!"
48
She embraced him in a transport of delight. "Then I agree. I am here. no. he enjoys those subjects. I promise you!" "You would do so in spite of your promise. "Moreover. These rooms suit me very well. I do not wish you to. She said to him: "You must dine with us Sunday." "All right. and it was agreed that he should settle in the rooms that same day. Did you not tell me that your home was in the country?" "Yes." "I swear I will not. My husband thinks you charming. But if you deceive me once--just once. then?" She whispered softly." She left him. and I will move at once." "Truly?" "Truly--upon my word of honor. I shall not forget." She thought a moment and then replied: "No I do not want you to." "Why not. and I do not wish you to. I shall remain." He laughed." He was flattered." "Very well. talk to him of gardening and crops. why?" "Then you know something about agriculture?" "Yes. they were hired in my name!" But she persisted: "No.

Poor Charles!" The manager. and delighted her husband by talking agriculture to him. come." "Madeleine Forestier." Georges Duroy left for Cannes the next day by the seven o'clock express. to counterbalance them. DEATH AND A PROPOSAL Duroy moved his effects to the apartments in Rue de Constantinople."
. grumblingly gave his consent. he helped you to your position. Having opened it. I have not the strength nor the courage to see that agony day and night. He examined the postmark. he found a letter under his door. A commissionnaire conducted him to Villa Jolie." "Your friend. You were his comrade." The floor of the drawing-room which the young man entered was covered with a Persian rug. it is to come and help me--not to leave me alone during Charles's last moments. I have a favor to ask of you. and of the Italian style of architecture. sir. Forestier extended both her hands.CHAPTER VIII
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CHAPTER VIII
." Georges murmured: "Certainly I will go. you are indispensable to us. He repeated: "But return speedily." "Dear sir and friend: You told me. He will not be here long." Duroy asked: "How is your master?" "Not very well. The house was small and low. Duroy. although he is not confined to his bed. Duroy was free from care. dined at her house every Thursday. Mme. Villa Jolie. sir. to whom he communicated the contents of that letter. but the doctor has warned me. It was almost the end of February. I beg of you. Mme. and I think with terror of the approaching end I can only ask such a thing of you. Two or three times a week. Duroy murmured: "How cozy it is here! Where the deuce do they get the money from?" The rustling of a gown caused him to turn. I have no one else to ask. de Marelle by telegram. One night. the large windows looked upon the village and the sea. He arrived the following day at four o'clock in the afternoon. after having warned Mme. A servant opened the door and cried: "Oh. saying: "How kind of you to come. that I could count upon you at any time? Very well. for my husband has no relatives. did you not. it was from Cannes. when he returned home. he read: "Cannes. de-Marelle paid him visits. Madame is awaiting you patiently. He may not live through the week.

then leaned her brow against the pane and looked out. and I would not choose that occasion on which to visit Cannes. then said: "You must stop here. and if it should come in the night. The air was soft and balmy. They have taken little Lacrin of the 'Voltaire' to fill your place. indeed. Forestier inhaled it in feverish gasps." And he bowed his head again. "To see you die? That would not be a very pleasant sight. wished to converse with the invalid to reassure him. Your chamber is ready." His wife slowly closed the window. I will send for your luggage.
. Seeing that he did not speak. the sun is setting. and perhaps prettier for being more delicate. I am much obliged. I would be alone. said. it is magnificent" Forestier raised his head and said to his wife: "Give me more air. though he scarcely recognized him." He bowed. and is so dark that they have to light the lamps at three o'clock in the afternoon.CHAPTER VIII
50
She was a trifle paler and thinner." Forestier asked: "Is there anything new at the office?" "Nothing." "Sit down. It is time you came back. I came here to rest. and he bowed his head as if deep in hopeless meditation. his wife approached the window and pointing to the horizon. He might die any moment. I would rather die in a cellar. seated in an easy-chair. Duroy. you will catch more cold and that would be a serious thing in your condition. you have come to see me die." She replied: "You must be careful. I have told him of your arrival." said Forestier." "Now. he followed her. rains. let us go upstairs. He stammered: "Have you not been better since you are here?" His friend shrugged his shoulders impatiently: "You will see very soon. Forestier raised his hand slowly and with difficulty. and wrapped in coverlets. He divined that it was his friend. But where is your trunk?" Duroy replied: "I left it at the station. She whispered: "It is terrible--he knows he cannot be saved and he tyrannizes over me. and Duroy saw a form near a window. She opened a door on the first floor. saying: "You are here. it is late. Duroy continued: "At home it is still wintry. but he is incapable. but he could think of no words of comfort. hails. ill at ease." The invalid muttered: "I? I will soon be writing under six feet of sod. at the villa." She hesitated. since I must die?" She opened the window wide. "Look at that? Is it not beautiful?" In spite of himself Duroy felt the grandeur of the closing day and exclaimed: "Yes." said she. but still as bright as ever. "As you will." Duroy forced a smile." He made a feeble gesture of anger with his right hand. in order to be near you. He grasped the arms of his chair and said in a low voice: "Shut the window. not knowing which hotel you would advise me to stop at. It snows." A long silence ensued. and said: "I tell you I am suffocating! What difference does it make if I die a day sooner or later.

supported by his servant. reclining upon a couch. to-day he thinks he is better! He is making plans for to-morrow. he wanted it uncovered. Forestier did not stir. consulting his wife and Duroy: "You know it is for my study. A servant soon entered and placed a lamp upon the mantel-piece. The invalid raised his head. pleading fatigue. From my easy-chair I can see it constantly. When he saw the closed landau. only the ticking of a clock broke the silence. was reading. And everything will go on when I am gone as if I were here. His wife opposed him: "It is sheer madness! You will take cold. It is horrible. Forestier wanted to buy a vase to put on his bookcase. I know it. Forestier appeared to be in a chair. step by step. Finally they arrived at a pavilion over which were these words: "Gulf Juan Art Pottery. I am better and stronger. I shall no longer see the smallest objects--the glasses--the dishes--the beds on which we rest--the carriages.
. It is fine to drive in the evening. It took him a long time to choose. Forestier was alone with Duroy." The meal seemed to Duroy interminable." Forestier murmured: "Yes. she stood with her back to the room. The room grew dark. Forestier explained the different points of interest. Forestier descended the stairs." Again Norbert de Varenne's words occurred to Duroy. retired to his room and tried in vain to invent some pretext for returning home as quickly as possible." The next morning Georges rose early and strolled down to the beach. but he cannot stand the jolting on the road. "I shall return to Paris in a few days. Lunch as hastily as you can with Madeleine." said he. He consoled himself by saying: "Perhaps it will not be for long. then continued: "Everything that I see reminds me that I shall not see them long. Will you go upstairs?" He ascended the stairs. Forestier asked her husband: "Do you wish to retire. Duroy asked: "Well. Forestier asked irritably: "Are we to have no lamp to-night? That is what is called caring for an invalid!" The form outlined against the window disappeared and an electric bell was heard to ring. I am going to be better." He paused a few moments. she said to him: "You see." The carriage arrived. his wife. Duroy. heartrending to listen to: "How many more sunsets shall I see--eight--ten--fifteen--twenty--or perhaps thirty--no more." He persisted: "No. He is determined to go. you two--as for me--all is at an end." At length he made his choice. I prefer the ancient form--the Greek. Mme." and the carriage drew up at the door. At length Forestier broke the silence in a gasping voice." They first drove along a shady road and then took the road by the sea. How I loved all that. or will you go downstairs to dinner?" "I will go down to dinner. how are you? You look better this morning. When he returned the servant said to him: "Monsieur has asked for you two or three times. We are now going to Gulf Juan to buy pottery for our rooms in Paris.CHAPTER VIII
51
Mme. they brought the pieces to him one by one. for there was no conversation. When they had finished. her face toward the window. As he could not leave the carriage. You have more time. because we are going to take a drive." When Mme.

you are not so low as that. However. Repeat with me: 'Confiteor Deo omnipotenti. "That has upset him. I shall never forget his face." He continued. Prepare that poor. Forestier in affright woke Duroy and asked him to fetch the doctor. Gavant who prescribed for the sick man." "In about ten days?" "Yes. He will be dead to-morrow morning. Beata Mariae semper virgini. Forestier went out and seated herself with Duroy in an adjoining room. he said: "It is the final stage.CHAPTER VIII
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On their way home along the gulf a cool breeze suddenly sprang up. only a slight attack. I am entirely at your disposal" Duroy went to Mme. "He is going to die. my son?" The young woman rose and said simply: "Let us go into the garden. beneath a blossoming rosebush. When the journalist asked him his opinion. The priest repeated: "You have committed sins: of what kind.'" He paused from time to time to permit the dying man to catch up to him. I will go back. At first it was nothing. but not in danger. The heat of the bed did not stop the attack. When he had entered the death chamber. I am a pastor. The doctor advises me to send for a priest. in the tone of one officiating at the altar: "The mercy of God is infinite. a neighbor. Perhaps you have forgotten it. Will you be kind enough to procure one who will require nothing but the confession. repeat the 'Confiteor. Then suddenly the priest said. I ask no more. and who will not make much fuss?" The young man brought with him a kind. Forestier choked. He rose to be shaved. After several moments of silence Duroy asked: "Will it be some time before you return to Paris?" "No. his face assumed a scared expression. Nothing quieted him. and every time he tried to breathe he coughed violently. old priest who accommodated himself to circumstances. for he insisted on being shaved every morning. I will help you. He had to be carried from the landau to his room." she replied. The proof of that is that I came as a friend. He returned almost immediately with Dr. You are ill. We must not listen to his secrets. and the invalid began to cough." The sick man murmured something. save cousins.' my son. Mme. What will you do?" She hesitated a moment and then said slowly: "I will go and tell him that the cure wishes to see him. We will speak of that when you are better. I take advantage of every occasion to gather in my sheep." They could not hear his reply. "Charles has no relatives then?" "None." At that moment they heard the priest saying to him: "Why no. Forestier. Then he said: "Now. The priest continued: "No." They seated themselves upon a bench before the door. but was obliged to go to bed at once. The first words the sick man uttered were to ask for a barber." A long silence followed. "When I mentioned the priest to him. "when all is over. young wife and send for a priest. He knew that the end was near. which lasted until midnight. at most. If you will only confess. His father and mother died when he was very young." said she. I shall not administer the sacrament. and began to breathe so painfully that Mme. I can do nothing more. confess."
. but it grew worse and turned to a sort of hiccough--a rattle.

in surprise and affright. Duroy himself was almost asleep when he felt a presentiment that something was about to happen. Forestier and Duroy watched in the chamber of death. you will be better to. who was also weeping. and hoped as did everyone--and now all was ended for him forever. Suddenly he shuddered and gasped: "The cemetery--me--my God!" He did not speak again." He wept. uttered a cry and fell upon her knees by the bedside. What was the difference between one and the other? A few more dawns." That night Mme. of the feasts which live several days. the servant came to tell them that the priest had finished. They were alone beside him who was no more. and then fled! One was born. What would she do now? Whom would she marry? Had she projects. He returned an hour later. Duroy turned away his eyes in order not to see the corpse. "Au revoir. and two streams of blood issued from the corners of his mouth and flowed upon his night robe. and they watched in silence. I do not want to die--oh." Duroy. Charles Forestier." Forestier drew his breath quickly and so faintly that one could scarcely hear him. perceiving it. They did not speak. A nurse. When he was gone. it is nothing. I will come again to-morrow morning". and together they ascended the stairs. Georges. awakening. laughed. the dying man. and he left. Life lasted a few months or years. he had breathed his last. his hands ceased their perpetual motion.morrow. you will never return to earth! He thought of the insects which live several hours. Forestier's head was bowed. The young man's heart grew hopeful. The young woman was seated in an easy-chair at the foot of the bed. of the men who live several years. It is only an attack. He coughed slightly. His wife. of the worlds which last several centuries. grew. my God!" His staring eyes saw something invisible to the others. He opened his eyes just in time to see Forestier close his. had arrived and was dozing by the window. recovering his self-possession. Mme. who the day before had spoken to him. Mme. his hands plucked continually at the counterpane. tried to raise his two hands toward his wife and gasped:
53
"Save me--save me. sobbed: "No. and died. and regularly. For several years he had lived. Why should he lament when he had so many years still before him? He glanced at the handsome widow. my God--my God--what has happened to me? I cannot see. I do not want to die. I will take anything. Forestier seemed to have grown thinner since the preceding day. my darling. the clock of a neighboring convent chimed noon. That was his friend. loved. Duroy likewise seated himself. her fair hair enhanced the beauty of her sorrowful face. The nurse. He repeated: "I do not want to die! Oh. Then his hands commenced to wander hither and thither continually. mechanically made the sign of the cross. He lay there motionless and ghastly. How had she ever consented to marry that man? Then he pondered upon all the hidden secrets of their lives. The priest was holding his hand. Duroy left the room to obtain some food. His wife. slowly. that was all. approached the bed and said: "It has come. the tears coursed down his pallid cheeks. sent by the doctor. was happy.CHAPTER VIII In the course of a few minutes. Why that anxiety as to what she would do?
. as if gathering something on the coverlet. The hours dragged on. who was panting. you tired yourself with that drive. Georges's eyes seemed attracted to that emaciated face which the flickering light made more hollow. eaten. Forestier would eat nothing. The invalid had not stirred. my son. Adieu! man or woman. murmured with a sigh of relief: "It was not as hard as I feared it would be. He remembered that he had been told of a Count de Vaudrec who had dowered and given her in marriage. save me--go for the doctor. Oh. plans? He would have liked to know.

to find out her intentions."
. who has his position to make. you can tell me your decision." He did not know how to tell her that he would be delighted to wed her." She glided softly to his side." He opened the window. and will make a complete change in your life. He broke the oppressive silence by saying: "You must be fatigued. therefore he must find out her plans before returning to Paris." He paused. but I shall force myself to be brave. you are very kind. a man who has his way to make does not know what may come. As her delicate fingers lay upon her knee the young widow said gravely: "Yes. I shall be all alone. it is delightful. letting in the cool night air. in order that she might not yield to another's entreaties. But that rigid corpse lay between them. you can command me as you will. Duroy asked: "Can we not open the window a little? The air seems to be impure. He whispered: "Listen to me. almost suffocating. Certainly it was no time to speak to her on such a subject. He turned: "Come and look out. but I have the will and some intelligence. but the day after to-morrow I shall leave here and when you return to Paris it might be too late. This is no proposal--the time and place would render it odious. he thought he might be able to express himself by means of some phrase which would have a hidden meaning and would infer what he wished to say. Duroy continued: "It is a heavy blow for you. He added: "It is very sad for a young woman like you to be left alone. A man who has attained his ambition knows what to count on. When we meet in Paris. gazed at it. Do not reply." "Certainly.-it may be better or worse. If I can do anything for you. either a friend or a husband--for my heart and my body are yours." "Yes. They glanced involuntarily at the corpse as if they expected to see it move." she replied." She held out her hand to him and said mournfully and gently: "Thanks. she would have confidence in him. You know that I am only a poor devil. I do not wish to speak any more on the subject here. and I am advancing. Do not be angry that I broach the subject at such a time. but above all I am grieved. Had she not sent for him? Was not that a kind of avowal? He was impatient to question her. I am yours." "I repeat it to you to-day. and he stammered: "At any rate. I told you one day that my most cherished dream was to have a wife like you." Their voices sounded strange in that room. but did not reply. for she knew that he was intelligent. but let me continue. and was seized with an ardent desire to kiss it. you will remember the compact between us. and that you can make of me as you will. Why should he not succeed? He was positive that she liked him. I do not want you to answer me now." She sighed deeply. resolute.'" He took her proffered hand. and found that it was caused by a desire to win her for himself. I say too: 'Count on me.CHAPTER VIII
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Georges questioned himself. I only wish to tell you that by a word you can make me happy. "I have noticed it too. she still did not reply. The atmosphere became oppressive. however. tenacious. Slowly he raised it to his lips and then relinquished it. He would soon have to leave that villa. for he could not remain alone with the young widow.

We shall meet again and talk it all over later. I have already reflected upon what you proposed to me. and Georges returned to Paris by the express which left at one-thirty. de Marelle became quite conjugal. After lunch.
CHAPTER IX
. received a letter from her announcing her return about the middle of April. Good-bye until to-night. He. grave voice: "Listen to me. Do not answer me. Lyons. At eleven o'clock they rose and lunched together. I shall return to him. however. if you are not a man who can understand and bear with me. I must be free. and I cannot allow you to depart without a word of reply. because it is necessary. Duroy followed her. submissive wife. which she returned with a more discreet wave of her hand. and looked at the youthful widow standing on the platform gazing after him. Installed in the cozy apartments on Rue de Constantinople. however. They did not speak but continued their watch. MARRIAGE Georges Duroy resumed his old habits. Forestier had not returned. The young man leaned out of the carriage. in order not to cherish the hope you expressed to me any longer. nor to render him ridiculous in the eyes of the world. Just as she was disappearing from his sight. My ideas. Mme. perfumed air of spring. she lingered at Cannes. nor criticism as to my conduct. He waited. that you should know me as I am. worn out with fatigue. bathed in moonlight. are not like those of other people. in that power
. Forestier retired to their rooms to obtain some rest. for she stood by his side motionless. You must think it well over too. I mention this to you before even poor Charles is buried. and not as an inferior. never to compromise the name of the man I marry. We will wait. after what you have said to me. I can tolerate neither control. his relations with Mme. but containing not a word as to their parting. The train arrived. Paris! All aboard!" The locomotive whistled and the train moved slowly out of the station. a porter cried: "Marseilles. without turning her head toward him. but I shall never change them. he had faith in his good fortune. it would be useless.CHAPTER IX
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He uttered these words without glancing at her. At length she murmured: "It is rather chilly. staring vaguely and fixedly at the landscape before her. she suddenly said. directly after the meal they sought their rooms. I pledge my word. Do not yield to an impulse. They walked up and down the platform awaiting the hour of departure and conversing on indifferent subjects. I know. Charles Forestier was buried the next day in the cemetery at Cannes without any pomp. Both he and Mme. Now take a walk. we will see. say neither yes nor no. we will become better acquainted." He kissed her hand and left her without having uttered a word. But that man must promise to look upon me as an equal. He was resolved to employ every means to marry her if she seemed to hesitate. to me. entirely unfettered. an ally. as they walked slowly along. the journalist took his seat. Toward midnight Georges fell asleep. That night they met at dinner. Mme. or as an obedient. Mme. At daybreak the nurse entered and he started up. in a low. however. in all my actions. and she seemed not to have heard them. my dear friend. Forestier accompanied him to the station. is not a chain but an association. I will. jealousy. while through the open window was wafted the sweet." and turned toward the bed.-my coming and my going. Forestier proposed that they take a turn in the garden." "Now listen carefully: Marriage. he threw her a kiss.

my dear. and placing her hand on his arm." They sat down. but my answer may be 'yes. He fancied he saw in her smile. for they seldom met in public. saying: "Thank you--thank you--how I love you. she inquired about the Walters. he stammered: "Well--why--why do you not resume--that profession--under--the name of Duroy?" She became suddenly serious." She paused. then autumn. Come to see me."
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Nothing more. until I disclose the secret to you. When she had disengaged herself from his embrace. "I am in Paris. for it is my birthday. his heart overflowing with joy. I will tell the Walters. and no one suspected the tie existing between Duroy and Mme. in her voice. whensoever you bade me." said she. in her words. there is plenty of time. At three o'clock of the same day he called at her house. my friend. he fell upon his knees. "I had become a journalist in spirit.CHAPTER IX of attraction which he felt within him--a power so irresistible that all women yielded to it. spent little. a kind of invitation. as you wished them kept secret. de Marelle our plans?" "No." She rose." Divining that she would accept him." She turned away her head and continued: "If you wish. she said gravely: "Listen." "Madeleine Forestier. we can be married the beginning of May." "Very well. and passionately kissed her hands. One evening Madeleine said to him: "You have not yet told Mme." He promised and left her. Forestier. He received it at nine o'clock. tried to save some money that he might not be without a sou at the time of his marriage. would please me. which falls on Saturday. she was very pale. the tenth of May. I have not yet fully decided. and the newspaper." "Very well. his associates. Duroy kissed her brow. I like the profession." "The tenth of May. and became as miserly as he had once been prodigal. At length a short note admonished him that the decisive moment had arrived. and although he had resolved not to hasten matters. She extended both hands to him with a sweet smile. Summer glided by.' You must wait patiently. He worked steadily. however. "I miss that very much. she said: "Do not let us speak of that yet."
. and they gazed into each other's eyes for several seconds. then she murmured: "How kind of you to come!" He replied: "I should have come. I have not mentioned them to a soul." "I obey you in all things joyfully.

He replied simply: "I have often thought of it." He replied: "No. Mme. it is very nice. It is excellent. We will visit them." He asked: "What is it?"
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"It is this: I am like all women. "Because I am afraid I should be ridiculed. conquered as he had never been by any woman. I should like to bear a noble name. sign your articles 'D. do they not?" "Yes. too. perplexed: "But--they are--" Then he added more firmly: "My dear." and held toward him a sheet of paper on which was written: "Mme. country people." "Why not?" He laughed. "but it is difficult to explain. and no one laughs. they are plain. as you proposed. innkeepers. and repeated: "Duroy de Cantel. de Cantel. excellent!" Then she added with an air of conviction: "You will see how easily it will be accepted by everyone! After to-morrow. I wish to. It sounds very well." said she. who strained every nerve to give me an education. Duroy de Cantel. Separate your name in this way: Du Roy. first as a literary pseudonym and then as my surname in conjunction with Duroy. be separated. which might later on." She shrugged her shoulders." She smiled sweetly." "I do not like the termination. but their--simplicity--their rusticity might annoy you. Could we not modify it?" She took a pen and wrote down the names in order to study them. I have my--my weaknesses. near Rouen. Can you not on the occasion of our marriage change your name somewhat?" She blushed as if she had proposed something indelicate. I will love them very much. at Canteleu." She was delighted. I.CHAPTER IX "Your parents live near Rouen. I have thought of assuming the name of my native place.' and your 'Echoes' simply 'Duroy." She asked: "Is your native place Canteleu?" "Yes."but you. Duroy de Cantel." He was affected. am the child of humble parents--but I lost mine--I have no one in the world"--she held out her hand to him-." "I am very anxious to see them!" He hesitated. I am not ashamed of them. Suddenly she cried: "Now I have it. that will not do." Gravely he replied: "Yes. "I have been thinking of something. but it does not seem easy to me. it is too common a proceeding. What is your father's name?"
.' That is done on the press every day and no one will be surprised to see you take a nom de plume. Everyone does it. "No. "Not at all--not at all.

he had been compelled to choose some one else as a legal companion. she glanced up at him and asked: "What ails you?" "Take a seat. and waited." She sighed like one about to lose consciousness. "It will be hard." said he." The next morning he received a telegram from Madame. He felt a desire to inform the passers-by. then she wrote upon a blank sheet:
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"M. to tell her that he could not remain a bachelor indefinitely. but did not speak. But I have neither position nor money." When Georges reached the street resolved to call himself. Mme. Forestier. Georges du Roy de Cantel with Mme. de Marelle persisted in living. Alexandre du Roy de Cantel announce the marriage of their son. without." He said sadly but resolutely: "I am going to be married. "We must talk seriously. held his head more erect and walked as he thought gentlemen should. He swaggered more boldly." or even "Du Roy de Cantel." She examined her writing." Perceiving that his embrace was colder than usual." Scarcely had he entered his apartments when the thought of Mme. comfort. and the fear of giving you pain grieves me more than what I have to tell you. and very much embarrassed by what I have to confess to you." She murmured "Alexandre!" two or three times in succession. hoping that she would reply. and asked: "What is it? Tell me quickly. de Marelle entered and cast herself into his arms. and. however. When the bell rang. "My name is Du Roy de Cantel. informing him that she would be with him at one o'clock. He cast down his eyes. an ally. Bel-Ami. What I need is an associate. more moved by her silence than he would have been by her anger." thought he. He awaited her impatiently. He took the hand resting on the arm of the chair. determined to confess at once and afterward to argue with her. "Du Roy. He continued: "You cannot imagine how much I suffered before taking that resolution. and he wrote to her immediately. appointing a meeting for the following day. and that." She turned pale.CHAPTER IX "Alexandre. very sad. charmed with the effect. "There will be a quarrel surely. I must have near me some one who can counsel. trembled." it seemed to him that he was of more importance. and I have found one!" He paused. he was preparing to commence. his heart gave a bound. you see that I am very much perplexed.
. I love you." She seated herself without removing her hat. and insults. M. I am alone in Paris. I love you with all my heart. and Mme. and support me. de Marelle rendered him uneasy. saying: "Good afternoon. henceforth. expecting an outburst of furious rage. but she drew it away and murmured as if stupefied: "Oh. as M. then she gasped. venturing to touch her. my God!" He fell upon his knees before her. exclaimed: "With a little method one can succeed in anything. reproaches. Finally he said slowly: "My dear friend. She pressed her hand to her heart and breathed with difficulty.

inferring that they were not at all astonished. took her hand. that they should leave the same evening for Rouen. which expresses all the misery pent-up in a woman's heart. He pressed her hand slightly.CHAPTER IX
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"Clo. You break my heart. who had decided that the date fixed for the wedding should be kept secret. de Marelle started. that the ceremony should be celebrated in the presence of witnesses only. There are days when I should like to kill your husband. On the contrary." And disengaging herself she left the room. The tenth of May arrived. you have made a good choice. de Marelle's eyes and trickle slowly down her cheeks. tearful glance so charming and so touching. who asked him: "Have you told Mme." She looked at him with that despairing. kissed it. As the train glided along. and that the day following they should visit the journalist's aged parents and spend several days with them.
. I can do nothing. if I could have married you. "Du Roy. she thought it an excellent plan. Forestier's. my little Clo. She rose." She murmured: "We shall have a great many things to do!" in a tone which seemed to say: "We must sacrifice pleasure to duty. He saw two tears gather in Mme. Thinking a religious ceremony unnecessary." "Duroy. Duroy had tried to persuade Madeleine to abandon that project. do not weep. but she did not respond to the pressure." He retained her hand wondering anxiously how he could manage to caress her. the couple were married at a magistrate's and took the six o'clock train for Normandy." "Did it affect her?" "Not at all. humiliated. Duroy seated in front of his wife. He whispered: "Do not weep. You--you are right." He spoke in a low. If you knew. her tears continued to flow. others pretended to have foreseen it. but not succeeding in his efforts he was finally compelled to submit." his "Echoes. and others again smiled. seductive voice." and his political sketches. you understand my position. who signed his articles. Duroy saw that she was going to leave him without a word of reproach or pardon." She made an effort to appear dignified and haughty. and said: "When we return we will dine at Chatou sometimes. "D." The news was soon noised abroad. de Cantel. Some were surprised. He seized her gown and implored: "Do not leave me thus. de Marelle?" He replied calmly: "Yes. as they had issued no invitations." spent the best part of his time with his betrothed. and stammered: "I have nothing--to say. With a sigh of relief at escaping so easily. and he felt humbled. what happiness it would have afforded me! But you were married! What could I do? Just think of it! I must make my way in the world and I can never do so as long as I have no domestic ties. Clo. he repaired to Mme. though somewhat unsteadily: "Who is it?" For a moment he hesitated before he replied: "Madeleine Forestier!" Mme. Oh. I beseech you. The young man. and asked.

" He kissed her hands feverishly and replied:
. Pushing back some stray locks upon her temples." The gentleness of his tone moved the young woman. She repeated: "Stop. pressed her to him and murmured: "I love you dearly. pressed a kiss upon her neck." And he asked: "How did you make Forestier's acquaintance?" She replied with provoking archness: "Are we going to Rouen to talk of him?" He colored. For several moments she remained motionless. I say!" He seized her head with his right hand. have done. We are not children. "I will wait. at that dinner to which I was invited at Forestier's). if I could only find a wife like that!' And now I have one. Duroy bending over her. we shall soon reach Rouen. He continued: "The first time I saw you (you remember. "I? Impossible. I thought: 'Sacristi." She glanced at him with smiling eyes. she exclaimed: "We are foolish. She exclaimed: "Ah! a stag!" The train was passing through the forest of Saint-Germain and she had seen a frightened deer clear an alley at a bound. as she did so. "I am a fool." In the meantime. they would keep the apartments in which she had lived with her first husband. stop!" But he did not obey her. and Duroy would receive Forestier's position on "La Vie Francaise. I am stupid." She appeared surprised: "Why?" "I do not know. I should make more advances. turned it toward him and pressed his lips to hers. said: "Georges." "Very well." He seated himself beside her. pushed him away and repeated: "Stop!" He did not heed her.
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He said to himself: "I am too cold. forgetting her injunctions and his promise. then raising her head. she freed herself and rising." She was delighted." Reseating herself near him she talked of what they would do on their return. I want to embrace you and I am surprised that I have the right. gaily." She calmly offered him her cheek which he kissed as he would have kissed his sister's.CHAPTER IX He said: "It seems strange that you should be my wife. my little Made. a whistle announced the proximity of the station. With an effort. She struggled. he slipped his arm around her waist. You intimidate me. she said: "You tickle me. It seems droll. and leaning toward him she offered him her lips. As she gazed out of the open window." said he.

" and approaching her. Duroy clasped his wife in his arms and said: "My little Made. "I know it. Both Duroy and his wife were charmed with the beauties of the landscape presented to their view. M. Duroy. and they would never have taken that handsome lady for their daughter-in-law. I feel that I love you very. son?" The young man replied: "Yes. They did not recognize their son in that fine gentleman. who had been informed several days before of their intended arrival." Both the old man and his wife were struck dumb with astonishment. made so bold as to ask with a twinkle in his eye: "May I kiss you
.CHAPTER IX "I adore you. The following morning. Duroy saw an old couple not a hundred meters off. combined with a sort of satisfied approbation on the part of the father and of jealous enmity on that of the mother. and melancholy. very much. notwithstanding his age. Madeleine. who had never laughed nor jested. it is I. real. the latter recovered her self-possession first and asked: "Is it you." "We shall be very uncomfortable. As he whipped up his horse."
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On reaching Rouen they repaired to a hotel where they spent the night. and vigorous. with stooping shoulders--a woman who had worked from childhood. Mother Duroy." Georges cried with a laugh: "Good day. not sham. and he leaped from the carriage crying: "Here they are. but that is fine!" Madeleine joined him and placing both of her hands on her husband's shoulder. senior. alighted and watched the couple advance. He began again: "You know they are peasants. with a contraction of her heart she had not anticipated. approaching. the woman was tall. they do not know what hair mattresses are at Canteleu." She seemed delighted. when they had drunk the tea placed upon the table in their room. corpulent. passed the child they were expecting. They walked along. although he had prepared his wife. who was naturally jocose." He walked toward the window and lighted a cigarette. "So much the better. and the cabman halted in order to allow them to get a better idea of the panorama before them. he kissed her upon both cheeks and said: "This is my wife. cried: "Oh. my little Made. The sight of the harbor. how beautiful! I did not know that there were so many ships!" An hour later they departed in order to breakfast with the old couple." She smiled trustfully and murmured as she returned his kisses: "I love you too--a little. florid." The two rustics stared at Madeleine as if she were a curiosity. of the river filled with ships moved him and he exclaimed: "Egad. It would be charming to sleep badly--when--near you--and to be awakened by the crowing of the cocks. I know them." The man was short. There is only a straw bed in my room. you have told me often enough. Father Duroy. without glancing at the "city folks." The visit to his parents worried Georges." She smiled. with anxious fear. thin. too. comic-opera peasants.

she cried: "Oh Lord. she was depressed. Madeleine did not speak nor did she eat. to whom they were all familiar. Her father without doubt. grim and austere. has your wife any means?" Georges replied: "Forty thousand francs." He admired his son's wife. Then he turned to his wife: "Come into our room. When they were alone. Duroy's tavern. who afterward wiped his lips with the back of his hand. The old man took his son's arm and asked him: "How are you getting on?" "Very well. on a yellow horse. Georges embraced Madeleine. the two men joined them. kissed her daughter-in-law with hostile reserve. she had formed no poetical ideas of those peasants. is it you?" He replied merrily: "Yes. made a low courtesy on seeing so beautiful a lady appear. were the only ornaments in that neat. but bare room." They passed through a door to the right and entered a room paved with brick. Made! I am glad to see the old people once more. A stranger had had the little girl educated. with whitewashed walls and a bed with cotton hangings. representing Paul and Virginia beneath a blue palm-tree. but when one returns. Madeleine and the mother walked side by side in silence.CHAPTER IX
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too?" His son uttered an exclamation and Madeleine offered her cheek to the old peasant. while Georges. at the entrance to which stood M. but she had perhaps expected to find them somewhat more polished. A crucifix above a holy-water basin and two colored prints. The old woman. who had come to assist. knocking on the partition with his fist: "Come." and he kissed her as he had kissed his father and mother. "you can lay aside your hat. refined. Tell me. but sat at the board. then recognizing Georges. "Good morning. and in his day had considered himself a connoisseur. She recalled her own mother. country lass. When one is in Paris one does not think of this place. glancing at her daughter-in-law with hatred in her heart. served in a truly rustic fashion. of whom she never spoke to anyone--a governess who had been betrayed and who had died of grief and shame when Madeleine was twelve years old. enlivened by the cider and several glasses of wine. and Napoleon I. in her turn. A neighbor. it is I. she knew that she was coming to a simple home. the soup is ready. as red as an apple and as round." They re-entered the large public-room and took their seats at the table. They soon reached the village. The carriage preceded them with the luggage. The meal was a long one. related many anecdotes. but she had vague suspicions. one enjoys it just the same. Who was he? She did not know positively." said he. Mother Duroy did not speak. Wherefore? She had wished to come. laughed at them." At that moment his father cried. A pine board fastened over the door indicated that thirsty people might enter. Father Duroy.
. Mother Brulin. The table was laid." His father whistled softly and muttered: "Whew!" Then he added: "She is a handsome woman. rosy. Her ideal was a stout." "That is right.

Why. alone. Neither Father Duroy nor his wife spoke. Madeleine choked and asked: "Can we go out? I cannot remain here any longer. Madeleine drew her husband outside in order not to have to remain in that room. When the meal was over. When they were alone. could see the stars between the branches and hear the rustling of the leaves. he interrupted her: "I have seen it. She asked: "Where are we?" He replied: "In the forest--one of the largest in France. abandoned. exclaimed on seeing his son." Old Duroy grumbled at being disturbed. "Would you like to stroll down to the Seine?" Joyfully she cried: "Yes. She seemed to be lost. hedged in on either side by impenetrable brushwood. warm. I should like to return. and spent the remainder of the afternoon beneath the willows in the soft. and rocked gently by the rippling waves of the river." They descended the hillside."
. on raising her head. Madeleine rose and placed her chair at the door in order to wait until her father-in-law and his wife had finished their coffee and wine. they guessed whose wish it was. Duroy. Georges soon joined her. When Georges told his parents that they were going to return home." They walked along and entered a narrow path among high trees." She attempted to protest. she could not tell. The next morning Madeleine rose early and was ready to leave at daybreak. The smoke from the clay pipes and penny cigars filled the room. hired a boat at Croisset. If you wish we will leave tomorrow." Madeleine." She whispered: "I should like to go. smoke. spring air.CHAPTER IX
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The meal was not yet over when customers entered. and play dominoes. he said: "You are already weary. surrounded by perils. beneath that vast vaulted sky. shook hands with M. She felt strangely nervous. They returned at nightfall. His father asked simply: "Shall I see you soon again?" "Yes--in the summer-time. and seating themselves at the wooden tables began to drink." "Very well. the atmosphere of which was heavy with smoke and the fumes of liquor." On their return they found the old people in bed. we will. The evening repast by candle-light was more painful to Madeleine than that of the morning. She murmured: "I am afraid.

not have presented you to M. and Mme." Then she murmured: "Du Roy de Cantel."
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Georges gave them two hundred francs to appease them. he rang and the servant answered his summons. Georges." His mother grumbled: "I hope you will not regret what you have done." said he. He entered the room and asked: "Have you invited anyone to dinner?" She replied without turning her head and continuing the arrangement of her flowers: "Yes and no: it is my old friend. senior. however. "I warned you. how thoughtful of you!" and she kissed him with such evident affection that he felt consoled. he saw Madeleine arranging in a vase on the mantelpiece a bunch of roses similar to his. he said: "Here. the couple kissed the old peasants and set out. Georges asked: "Is Madame at home?" "Yes. he had given up his own especial province to assume that of Forestier.
. I should.CHAPTER X "Very well." He stopped behind her. As they were descending the side of the hill. I have brought you some roses!" She turned to him with a smile and said: "Ah." Georges murmured: "Very well." as he slipped his arm around her waist. the desire strong within him to conceal it--to throw it away. We will say that we spent a week at your parents' estate. the bouquet in his hand. "You see. who is in the habit of dining here every Monday and who will come now as he always has.
CHAPTER X
. sir. on arriving at his door. Count de Vaudrec. she kissed him saying: "Good morning." and drawing near him. However." In the dining-room he paused in astonishment to see covers laid for three: the door of the salon being ajar. I shall send them confections from Paris. As he passed a florist's on Rue Notre Dame de Lorette he bought a bouquet of half-open roses for Madeleine. Madeleine. du Roy de Cantel." He replied: "Good morning. Having forgotten his key. On this particular evening he turned his steps toward home with a light heart. Duroy laughed. and the cab arriving at ten o'clock. JEALOUSY The Du Roys had been in Paris two days and the journalist had resumed work. and to devote himself entirely to politics." She laughed too and replied: "I am charmed now! They are nice people whom I am beginning to like very much.

faithful friend. At almost any time upon returning home he found in his salon a senator.CHAPTER X She took the flowers. Laroche-Mathieu brought me important news of Morocco. against the mantelpiece. Let us set to work at once. he is very pleasant. and when she had finished he raised objections. Madeleine said to her husband: "Is he not nice? He improves. surprised him by the ingenuousness of her mind. saying: "How are you. took up the question and. When he was gone. who soon became celebrated in political circles. His wife." He interrupted her with an impatient gesture: "Do you know I am getting tired of Charles? It is Charles here. du Roy de Cantel. a magistrate." It was always difficult for him to make a beginning and she would lean over his shoulder and whisper the phrases in his ear. he turned to her husband and cordially offered his hand. too. and having lighted a cigarette. and it made Du Roy furious at the dead. Du Roy hoped. was one of the largest stockholders of M. The article appeared with the signature of "G. Georges re. who treated Madeleine with grave familiarity. I think we shall understand each other well. yes. too. Even at home the obsession continued.read it. He is a good. His wife ceased smoking. Walter congratulated the author. Then she said as she noted the effect: "Now I am satisfied." "You do not know. even his associates sometimes called him Forestier. because Charles disliked them. I did not have time to tell you before dinner. on acquaintance. for her interest was aroused in following Georges's line of thought. for Vaudrec came. and put them in an empty vase. it was to him almost an insult. true. Deputy Laroche-Mathieu." He carried the lamp and they entered the study. or a general. my dear Du Roy?" He had no longer that haughty air." and made a great sensation. inhaled their perfume. you will become intimate with him at once. whose face was radiant. M. that the two men had known one another for ten years. making notes as she spoke. when their article was completed." she said. very good--excellent--very forcible--" And when he had finished speaking. I have work to superintend in the kitchen. my mantelpiece looks pretty. without him--" She did not complete her sentence and Georges replied: "Yes. then he would add a few lines.
. the cleverness of her wit. who dined at Rue Fontaine every Tuesday." The dinner was excellent and the Count remained very late. Du Roy's hand. the entire house reminded him of Charles. who liked sweetmeats. From time to time she murmured: "Yes. and the number of her acquaintances. Come. developed another plan. After gallantly kissing Mme. a deputy. One would have thought in the course of five minutes. Ah. He listened attentively. that some of the benefits promised by him to Forestier might fall to his share. take the lamp. He entered as if he were at home. told him the news and gave him her plan of the article. He grew to hate the very name. Walter's paper and the latter's colleague and associate in many business transactions. Madeleine. Both he and Madeleine pronounced it admirable and kissed one another with passionate admiration. Madeleine leaned. "that we have work to do to-night before retiring. later on." adding with an air of conviction: "Vaudrec is charming. asked: "Why do we never have sweets?" His wife replied pleasantly: "I never think of it. but was very affable. They would be given to Madeleine's new husband--that was all--nothing was changed. she said: "Now let us write. said: "I will leave you together. We must make a fine article of that. One evening Du Roy."
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A ring announced the Count. in his turn.

a host of cabs lined the drive. haunted by the same thought. foxes. he felt more reconciled to the thought of Forestier." After remonstrating thus with himself. As Georges remained silent. and felt like exclaiming: "Good evening. and I know that Sevres is on the other side.CHAPTER X Charles there. toward the end of June. however. and I believe truly that there is something else to be done in life. let him rest in peace. his wife. with here and there a forester's house. he asked: "Did Charles wear a cotton nightcap to keep the draft out of his ears?" She replied pleasantly: "No. to torment myself as I have done. my little Made. Charles liked this. One evening as Du Roy was smoking a cigarette at his window. roebucks. On retiring. but it is nice sometimes! It is nice when one has nothing better to do. One can feel the caressing breezes. The carriage rolled on toward the Arc de Triomphe and joined the stream of carriages returning home. asked in her soft voice: "Of what are you thinking? For half an hour you have not uttered a word. Charles liked that. the heat awoke in him a desire for fresh air." She whispered: "Yes." He paused for a moment and then asked: "Did you come here in the evening with Charles occasionally?" She replied: "Frequently. old fellow!"
." Georges' thoughts were busy with the dead. would you like to go as far as the Bois?" "Yes." The road they followed was not so much frequented. a gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the trees. one behind another." He felt a desire to return home at once. a lace one!" Georges shrugged his shoulders and said scornfully: "What a bird!"
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From that time Georges never called Charles anything but "poor Charles." Madeleine ascribed her husband's burst of ill humor to puerile jealousy. they kissed one another and Madeleine stammered in confusion: "We are as childish as we were at Rouen. the sky was studded with brilliant stars and Georges murmured. he said to himself angrily: "I am foolish to worry. Since Charles is dead. as he pressed his wife to his breast: "Oh. Forestier's image haunted him." He replied: "In our forests there are nothing but stags." She said to him: "Do you remember how gloomy the forest at Canteleu was? It seemed to me that it was full of horrible beasts and that it was interminable." They took an open carriage and drove to the Avenue du Bois de Boulogne. He asked: "My little Made." He replied with a sneer: "I am thinking of all those fools who kiss one another." with an accent of infinite pity. and boars. he could think of nothing else. certainly. while here it is charming. but she was flattered and did not reply. When the carriage containing Georges and Madeleine reached the turning which led to the fortifications. It was a sultry evening. who divined his thoughts.

and in which many society ladies were going to assist." He glanced at the younger of the two girls and thought: "Little Suzanne is not at all bad. asked: "Shall we go to Tortoni's for ices before returning home?"
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He glanced at her from his corner and thought: "She is pretty. He said: "Have you been well since we last met?" "Yes. was plain--one of those girls to whom no attention is ever paid. However he smiled as usual and gave her his hand to assist her to alight at the cafe. She said: "It will be very entertaining. it seemed to Georges that she turned pale on perceiving him. Tit for tat. not at all. it will get somewhat hot at the North Pole!" Then he replied: "Certainly.proportioned form. Walter and her two daughters seated like sentinels beside her. and hearing the sound of ladies' voices in the drawing-room. Walter and Mme. Clotilde was seated by the fireplace. Her mother rose. delicate face." and before she had time to think he kissed her. flaxen hair. he turned to his former mistress. with a well. have you. Having greeted Mme. being very small and dainty. Walter mentioned a fencing-match to be given at Jacques Rival's apartments. and turning to Georges. for we have no one to escort us. so much the better. he asked the servant: "Who is here?" "Mme. who was bored by his silence. Mme. or there would be war. Du Roy sought Boisrenard and told him to warn his associates not to continue the farce of calling him Forestier." was the reply. my comrade. the proceeds to be devoted to charities. a fair skin.
CHAPTER XI
. my darling. MADAME WALTER TAKES A HAND On entering the office the following day. It seemed to Madeleine that her husband's lips were icy." Du Roy offered his services at once. She extended her hand. But if they begin again to annoy me with you. a pretty. From the office he proceeded to his home. no one called him by that name. She accepted. blue-gray eyes. de Marelle. Bel-Ami?" And turning to Madeleine she added: "Will you permit me to call him Bel-Ami?" "Certainly. my dear. but I am in despair." A shade of irony lurked beneath those words." He replied: "Count upon me. and curly. my husband having an engagement. His heart pulsated violently as he opened the door. uttered so pleasantly. Madame." She resembled a doll. I will permit anything you wish. saying: "My daughters and I shall be very grateful."
. When Du Roy returned an hour later. said: "I shall count on you next Thursday at two o'clock. he took and pressed it as if to say: "I love you still!" She returned the pressure. Her elder sister.CHAPTER XI Madeleine. Rose.

he recalled their escapades. Bel-Ami. Walter is irreproachable. though she has been true to him. "Au revoir. He kissed her hand. Still she has suffered a great deal in having married a Jew.CHAPTER XI When the door closed upon Mme. Her mother entered. and with the familiarity of an old servant she asked: "Is Monsieur well?" He replied: "Yes. If you were not married I should advise you to ask for the hand of--Suzanne--would you not prefer her to Rose?" He replied as he twisted his mustache: "Eh! the mother is not so bad!" Madeleine replied: "I am not afraid of her. indeed! She is the prime mover in all the charitable movements at the Madeleine." When he had lunched the following morning he repaired to Rue Verneuil. But she is different. ah!" Then he shrugged his shoulders: "Bah. The same maid opened the door. All that evening he was haunted by recollections of his love for Clotilde. in her turn." thought he." "She a Jewess! No." This time she pressed his hand and he was moved by that silent avowal. Mme.
. Mme. Walter has taken a fancy to you!" He replied incredulously: "Nonsense!" "But I know it." Georges murmured: "And--she--likes--me--" "Yes." He determined to treat Mme. rose ceremoniously. bowed coldly. rose.
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Left alone with his wife. my child. She spoke of you to me with great enthusiasm. I am not sure but that M." Georges thought: "If I might have had Suzanne. Her husband you know as well as I. Fortunately she is not susceptible herself. her manner was so much like that of an outraged woman that he was amazed. she is a virtuous woman. She. He repeated to himself: "She is indeed nice." said he. Walter. Yes. it is absurd. and left the room with dignity. "I will go to see her to-morrow. her kindness." He did not understand her and repeated: "Susceptible herself?" She replied in a tone of conviction: "Oh." and entered the drawing-room in which some one was practising scales. He expected she would fall upon his neck. Walter went through the form of baptism. de Marelle. Walter very considerately in order to retain her regard. "How much I have thought of you. She said she would like to find two husbands like you for her daughters. At her age one does not begin to make conquests--one should commence sooner. She was even married by a priest. and looking into his eyes said: "Mme. It was Laurine. she laughed. however. I shall call upon her to-morrow. her father would not have consented." Du Roy was surprised: "I thought her a Jewess.

'" "I dared not come. tell me what ails Laurine. then drawing nearer the young woman. he is a charming man!" "How do you like your new life?" "Tolerably." she replied. I love you. I dared not." "Nonsense. I really believe she is jealous." She obeyed him. an associate. he will return to me some day. She loved him then with a lasting love! He whispered: "I adore you. I thought you would return." "And I love you." "Yes." "Ah. I said to myself: 'Bah. but one cannot mention you to her since your marriage. very well.CHAPTER XI "And I of you. but he is not in the way when he is here. Forestier instead. but M." "Still--still--you did not miss me." Then he asked: "Is your husband well?" "Yes. he went away the day before yesterday. I kept them. as for my heart--"
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. "Where can we meet again?" he asked. she scarcely bade me good morning and left the room with an angry air." "I do not know. He has just been home for a month. I was grieved. but when I heard your reason. he said: "Kiss me. is he?" "That is true. my dear. are the apartments not rented?" "No. Now." "Yes and no." "You did?" "Yes. nothing more. my wife is a comrade. but I longed to come. it happens opportunely." Du Roy colored. They seated themselves and smiled as they gazed into one another's eyes. I did not know how I should be received." Du Roy could not suppress a smile: "How opportunely that always happens!" She replied naively: "Yes. "My dear little Clo." His heart bounded joyfully. she no longer calls you Bel-Ami. "At Rue de Constantinople.

I confess that if I knew you better. It suits you admirably.match at Rival's?" "No. At Rival's door was a long line of carriages. her sister looked like her governess." "Well. I am satisfied to have kept them until we met again. Walter." said she." He murmured: "Permit me to hope that we shall become so. saying: "Downstairs. I wish to." Georges called for Mme. I will go to the chamber of deputies." Pressing Du Roy's hand. "No. too. "I beg you to do so. When Thursday came. I do not care about it. downstairs. it is not necessary for you to pay for them.
." "Yes. but she is good." He drew near Clotilde and murmured: "When shall we meet again?" "To-morrow. she does not trouble me.CHAPTER XI "I understand." "Yes." And Du Roy took his leave very well satisfied. Bel-Ami." She cast down her eyes." She kissed his hands. Suzanne. if you will. The match will take place in the subterranean apartments. The entertainment was for the benefit of the orphans of the Sixth Ward under the patronage of all the wiles of the senators and deputies who were connected with "La Vie Francaise. Never had she appeared so fresh. we shall see. He was surprised to find her looking so handsome and so young. he said: "Good evening. Walter blushed. who thinks it very pretty. he asked Madeleine: "Are going to the fencing. Walter in an open carriage. I should do as little Laurine." Du Roy was surprised: "Who told you about that name?" Rival replied: "Mme." He rose to take his leave somewhat embarrassed. saying: "You may do as you like. Her daughter. to-morrow at two o'clock. Madame. ladies." Mme. and I should call you Bel-Ami. we are not well enough acquainted." Du Roy laughed. was dressed in pink. for the weather was delightful. "Yes." Jacques Rival received the arrivals at the entrance to his apartments. Du Roy offered his arm to Mme.
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"You know I intend to take back the rooms on Rue de Constantinople myself. Walter and they entered. then he pointed to a small staircase which led to the cellar in which were his shooting-gallery and fencing-room.

Will you invite Rival and Norbert de Varenne? I shall go to Mmes. Rissolin. Madeleine was awaiting him in the drawing-room. for Mme." Then followed the fencing-match. Georges!" He added: "Poor devil!" in a tone of profound pity. Du Roy. if you stand at the end of the seat. "Egad. but he only smiled and replied: "What! as simple as that stupid fellow?" She ceased and murmured: "Oh. I believe she is affected. Walter replied hesitatingly: "I should like to keep you. in order to draw out his wife. pretended not to believe it. soft eyes to his and insisted: "Come. In any case the ministry will be overthrown and Laroche will profit by the occasion. Nearly all the benches were filled with ladies. escorting the Walters. stay with us--Bel-Ami--we need you!" He replied: "I obey with pleasure. ladies. Walter. "I tell you she will! You do not understand that it is a question of money--you are as simple as Forestier. two hundred and twenty francs remained for the orphans of the Sixth Ward. men cannot occupy the seats." said she. When the entertainment was over and all expenses were paid." Her object was to wound and irritate him. Du Roy. Laroche-Mathieu is coming here to dine with Viscountess de Percemur. after a moment of silence. Walter and her daughters reached their seats in the front row. and he smiled as he recognized the fact that he was really successful with the female sex. awaited his carriage. having obtained their places for them." Du Roy replied: "Very well. who were chatting as if they were at a theater. Mme.CHAPTER XI
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They descended the stairs and entered a large room. You could tell me the names of the participants. "I have some news. "France would not be silly enough to commence any folly with Tunis!" She shrugged her shoulders impatiently. she continued: "We shall have some company Tuesday." She raised her large. Madame!" Suddenly Jacques Rival's voice announced: "We will begin. de Marelle. Madeleine turned her back upon him scornfully. Du Roy retained his place beside the ladies and gave them all the necessary information. France may send an expedition out there in several months. seemed to love him madly." thought he. I will see to Rival and Norbert."
. Mme. we may have Mme. See. With a light heart he returned home. Walter and de Marelle to-morrow. you will not annoy anyone. Perhaps. "The affair with Morocco is becoming complicated. just the same." Mme. whispered: "I shall be obliged to leave you. he met her troubled but caressing glance. since the renewal of their relations." Du Roy. too. When seated face to face with Mme. which was lighted by Venetian lanterns and decorated with festoons of gauze.

"
. he said to his wife: "Well. I do not know why." Then he lowered his voice: "Or rather because I have thought only of you since yesterday. all but Mme. I am mad--I love you. is everyone coming to dinner?" She replied: "Yes. Walter to this effect: "I have succeeded in arranging matters and I shall be with you. but my husband cannot accompany me. buried his face in his hands. but I dared not. if you knew how I love you!" She could utter no sound. She acted very strangely. Some power has impelled me hither. He. appointing a rendezvous for the next day." But he fell upon his knees before her. I have nothing to say except that I have come. he prevented her by twining his arms about her waist. adieu!" and fled. Finally Mme." He replied: "She will come. and repeated in a passionate voice: "Yes. it is true that I have loved you madly for some time. Do not answer me. for a long time I have wished to make it. certain and was rendered uneasy until the day of the dinner. she gasped: "Come. so rigid. Never mind. He rose suddenly and attempted to embrace her. Walter appeared and offered him her hand cordially. On entering the house at his usual time. for she could feel his breath upon her cheek. and feigned to sob convulsively." He was not." He added: "It is a declaration made in jest in order not to startle you. Walter. She tried to rise. considering such pursuit beneath his dignity. who is uncertain as to whether she can come. she stammered with a blush: "But indeed--I do not understand--you surprise me. She took the matter as a jest. He arrived at Boulevard Malesherbes at two o'clock. In the hall he took his cane calmly and left the house saying: "Cristi! I believe she loves me!" He went at once to the telegraph office to send a message to Clotilde. in her agitation she repulsed him with both hands. "What good wind blows you here?" "No good wind. however. but gaining her liberty for a moment. Then he rose. "Is it a declaration--seriously?" "Yes. Walter and attempt to find out if she really was in love with him." He uttered those words with a smile upon his lips and a serious accent in his voice." She had recovered her self-possession and replied: "Why did you choose to-day?" "I do not know. sank into a chair.CHAPTER XI
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The following day he thought he would anticipate his wife's visit to Mme. but a desire to see you. He was ushered into the salon and waited. cried: "Adieu." They were seated near each other. perhaps she can manage it anyway. here I am! Pardon the morning call and the candor of my explanation. she escaped him and ran from chair to chair. enough of this childishness! Let us talk of something else." Suddenly turning pale. In her astonishment. they say you are so austere. That morning Madeleine received a message from Mme. Oh.

She has calmed down. Laroche-Mathieu and Rissolin were accompanied by their husbands. I will greet you. and then go away. and submissive." He continued: "I cannot live without seeing you. Think of my daughters!" "Then tell me where I can meet you--in the street--it matters not where--at any hour you wish--provided that I can see you." thought he. whether it be at your house or elsewhere." she whispered. From time to time he glanced at Clotilde." Still he awaited her arrival anxiously. and see your beautiful eyes. he whispered in her ear. it is impossible. Think of what my servants. my daughters. Mme." She replied: "You cannot leave your guests thus. but I shall see you to." When they were seated in the carriage. I shall not receive you. contemplate the outlines of your form. At Du Roy's right sat Mme. and kissing it passionately said: "I love you. and he spoke to her only of serious matters with exaggerated respect. Do not let me feel that I am not forgiven. he seized her hand. She declined his offer. I must see you for only a moment each day that I may touch your hand. and haughty.CHAPTER XI
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Du Roy thought: "I did right not to return there." She stammered: "After what you promised me--it is too bad--too bad. "I will escort you. comprehending that it was necessary to win that simple woman gradually." She listened tremblingly to the musical language of love. "Listen: I must see you! I will wait at your door like a beggar. do not come. Walter attracted him by the difficulty of the conquest. Mmes. If you do not come down. "I will accept. I will say. very careful. if you refuse me. how I can control myself--and yet--let me only tell you this--I love you--yes. She appeared very composed. Let me tell it to you. He was very humble." She repeated: "No.morrow. He insisted: "Why do you not want me? You wound me deeply. to persuade her to appoint a meeting where she willed at first. You see that I am calm. I love you. I will come to you. Be silent!" He spoke very low. somewhat reserved. She took her leave early. de Marelle looked bewitching in an odd combination of yellow and black. and later on where he willed." "Very well." He seemed to make a great effort."
. I cannot--I do not wish to. No one will even notice it. then he continued in a subdued voice: "See. you will break my heart. and made answer: "No. But Mme. breathe the air stirred by your gown. I only wish to repeat that I love you. let me go home with you and kneel before you five minutes to utter those three words and gaze upon your beloved face. would say--no--no--it is impossible. "She is really very pretty and fresh looking." She suffered him to take her hand and replied in broken accents: "No. I will not touch you." He smiled: "Bah! I shall be absent twenty minutes. Walter. I love you." said he.

It was she. Suddenly the rustle of a gown made him start. and kneeled down. de Marelle approached him: "You must take me home. du Roy replied slowly: "No. to let you believe that this--this adventure can have any results. Du Roy looked at his watch again. almost distracted. He laughed as he thought of the place of meeting. he could hear the measured tread of a corpulent man whom he had noticed when he entered. thank you. Walter." She proceeded to a side aisle after saluting the Host on the High Altar. not at all." The cab rolled on." The guests departed." When she was alone with Georges. whispered to Madeleine at the door: "Your dinner was perfect. with so much force and ardor that you will finally understand me. her face in her hands. Georges took one beside it and when they were in the attitude of prayer." He was overcome by astonishment. which was almost deserted. she asked: "You are not jealous?" Mme. Du Roy drew out his watch. Here and there an old woman kneeled at prayer." Turning to Madeleine." After alighting. regretting that he could not smoke. he said: "Thank you. my darling Bel-Ami.
. I adore you. his wife asked: "Where have you been?" He replied in a low voice: "I have been to send an important telegram. It was only three o'clock: he was half an hour too early. and never speak to me of it again. As the coupe stopped at the door. A MEETING AND THE RESULT The July sun shone upon the Place de la Trinite. Bel-Ami.
CHAPTER XII
. I will repeat it so often. and Georges' thoughts were with Mme. Clotilde. He entered the sacred edifice of La Trinite. the coolness within was refreshing. He replied: "I expect nothing--I hope nothing--I love you--whatever you may do. to explain all to you?" She replied between her fingers: "I am mad to let you speak to me thus--mad to have come hither--mad to do as I have done. took a footstool. you know that I only dine so far from home on that condition. You must kneel near me that no one will notice us. and reply: 'I love you too. He took a seat. how I was conquered the first time I saw you. she said to her coachman: "Take M. I love you more dearly every day. He arose and advanced quickly. I should like to tell you constantly how I began to love you. In a short while you will have the best political salon in Paris. enveloped in laces. du Roy home."
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Mme." She paused. At the end of the church near the choir. She did not offer him her hand and whispered: "I have only a few minutes. Will you permit me some day to unburden my heart. It was not yet a quarter past three. she whispered hastily: "I will be at La Trinite to-morrow." When he returned.'" He felt her frame tremble as she involuntarily repeated: "I love you too. at half past three. Forget it.CHAPTER XII She hesitated. she said: "Oh.

cannot--I never thought--it was stronger than I--listen--listen--I have never loved--any other--but you--I swear it--I have loved you a year in secret--I have suffered and struggled--I can no longer. She tried to pray."
. save me!" He stopped in surprise. "Receive my confession. tell me what to do. If you do not help me. "What can I do for you?" The priest was a young man somewhat inclined to corpulence. She would rather have died than have fallen thus. Du Roy asked. She rose. may press it." The priest asked: "Who is waiting for you?" "A man--who will be my ruin if you do not save me. Walter heard him near her. "Should I say that to you? I feel guilty. I want to pray--go. that the struggle was in vain. sustain me. Some one approached with a rapid step. but she felt her weakness. wondering if she were mad. Have pity on me. "and counsel me. hoping for another place of meeting than La Trinite: "Where shall I see you to-morrow?" She did not reply. ran toward him." Seizing his arm she repeated: "No. She murmured several words of supplication. I am lost!" He gazed at her. He continued: "Shall I meet you to-morrow at Park Monceau?" She turned a livid face toward him and said unsteadily: "Leave me-. "What do you want. It was a priest. at once--at once! It is necessary! He is here! In this church! He is waiting for me. Georges murmured: "Give me your hand that I may touch. she closed her eyes in order not to see Georges. now." He replied: "I confess every Saturday from three to six." said she. she could only think of him." She slowly took her hand from her face. I can no longer escape him--I am too weak--too weak. Madame?" "I want you to save me." She looked so pitiful that he rose without a word and asked with some hesitation: "Shall I return presently?" She nodded her head in the affirmative and he left her. After the man had disappeared. she knew that all was over. She could not pray. and clasping her hands. I love you.leave me now--go--go away--for only five minutes--I suffer too much near you." She wept and her bowed form was shaken by the violence of her emotion.CHAPTER XII
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"Oh. despicable--I--who have two daughters--but I cannot-. she seemed transformed into a statue of prayer. she turned her head. When Mme. Let me pray alone--five minutes--let me ask God--to pardon me--to save me--leave me--five minutes. she snatched her fingers from Georges's clasp and covered her face with them. he seized it saying: "I should like to drink your tears!" Placing the hand he held upon his heart he asked: "Do you feel it beat?" In a few moments the man Georges had noticed before passed by them. She did not however wish to yield. my God!" she continued incoherently. she had never been weak. she cried: "Save me.

When Du Roy passed him. and saw in a chapel near by. And then I hear my wife and daughter call you Bel-Ami from morning until night. enter this church from curiosity?" "No. for God's sake. He waited quite awhile. I am very much bothered by circumstances. He did not find Mme. Walter. he advanced toward him and said: "If you did not wear a gown." Feeling interested in the stranger. Her face was cold and severe. He permitted her to go. The latter exclaimed joyfully as Du Roy entered: "What luck! here is Bel-Ami. turned." The man replied: "I am not visiting the church. He saw no one." Du Roy looked at him and suddenly thought that he resembled Forestier. and he wondered: "What can he be doing here?"
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The man slackened his pace and looked at Georges with the evident desire to speak to him. Then he thought she might be looking for him. "Sir. then he seated himself near by and bided his time. I have never seen it before. The journalist then repaired to the office of "La Vie Francaise. he bowed and said politely: "I beg your pardon. they bowed. he walked away. saw him and came toward him. When he was near him. because it was against his principles to force matters. not to follow me and not to come to my house alone. seeing that he could not free himself from her. And did you. She had gone. she was confessing. Soon he heard the sound of a voice. He recognized Mme. "Are you from the provinces?" he asked. the doors of the confessionals. He drew nearer in order to see the woman whose voice he heard. At length Mme. hoping that she would rejoin him there. he returned and seated himself on the chair she had occupied. As the priest in his turn issued from the confessional." said she. Walter in the place in which he had left her. save me!" She seized his gown that he might not escape her. "I beseech you not to accompany me. At first he felt a desire to seize her by the arm and drag her away. while he uneasily glanced around on all sides to see if anyone noticed the woman at his feet. sir. have pity upon me." And with a smile upon his lips. but can you tell me when this church was built?" Du Roy replied: "I do not know. father. and he walked around the church. was sauntering down the nave. and I have acquired the habit
." As he entered he saw by the clerks' busy air that something of importance was going on. I have an appointment. Not finding her. It is the first time I have been here.CHAPTER XII She fell upon her knees sobbing: "Oh. You will not be admitted. I have the key to the confessional with me. Walter rose. sir. I am from Rennes. and was surprised. whence came it? He rose to examine into it. when he met the stout. He was furious. Finally." He paused and in a few moments added: "It is very warm outside. I think it is twenty or twenty-five years. he said: "Rise. Save me." Then he turned upon his heel and left the church whistling. In the doorway he met the stout gentleman. the journalist continued: "It seems to me that you are examining into it very carefully. and he hastened to the manager's room. Adieu!" And she walked away in a dignified manner. I am waiting for a lady." He stopped in confusion and apologized: "I beg your pardon. for disturbing you. "Yes." ******* Du Roy having walked around the choir. bold man wandering about. I would give you a sound thrashing.

" The manager having read the article said: "It is perfect. I will give you an article on the political situation of our African colony. We shall be very busy. that will do very well. then I will call you Bel-Ami as everyone else does. Great changes have taken place. He found Mme. "Ah." He laughed. Marrot is to form a new cabinet. a simple declaration of principles. I revised and corrected it for the occasion. they meant. she said: "How many people there are in the garden!" He took advantage of the occasion: "Yes."
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M. notwithstanding his failure at La Trinite. She exclaimed on seeing him: "You know that Laroche is minister of foreign affairs. that is true. Are you displeased?" Georges laughed. then I must have something interesting on the Morocco question--you must attend to that." Du Roy reflected a moment and then replied: "I have it. During dinner he repeated the words to himself." "How?" "Do you remember the first article we wrote on 'Souvenirs of a Soldier in Africa'? Well.Mathieu as minister of foreign affairs. Pardon me and come to-morrow at four o'clock to Park Monceau." and he proceeded to prepare M. which was nothing but a modification of his first article on "Souvenirs of a Soldier in Africa. yes. she seemed unhappy and anxious. Walter continued: "Very well. "I yield--I am yours where and when you will. The benches were all occupied by people trying to escape from the heat and by nurses with their charges." She smiled. I was thinking of a comical old priest I met a short while since." At that moment the servant entered with a dispatch containing these words without any signature: "I was beside myself. His wife was awaiting him anxiously." ******* Du Roy arrived at the appointed hour the following day." "Yes." Du Roy returned home to dinner delighted with his day. Walter an outline of his work. you are a treasure. I must write a leading article. When he had greeted her. He has chosen General Boutin d'Acre as minister of war. and our friend Laroche. "Not at all. Madeleine asked: "What is it?" "Nothing much. and with a joyful heart. I have just written an article on that subject.CHAPTER XII myself. shall we go somewhere else?"
. slipped the telegram into his pocket. Many thanks. Walter in a little antique ruin. The ministry has been overthrown." He understood the message. as he interpreted them.

and stammered: "No." "Yes. Come."
. he knows. "Where are we?" she asked. Suddenly she ceased speaking. she submitted to his caresses and even returned them." She told him how she had discovered that she loved him.CHAPTER XII "Where?" "It matters not where." At first he did not reply. I should like that better. then he murmured: "I am your slave. She was about to ascend the stairs. I do not want to. I will fetch a cab. for a drive. Mme. Walter said to Du Roy: "You cannot imagine how I suffer on your account--how I am tormented. on the ground floor. yes. "Yes." "Where are we?" she repeated. no." She was terror-stricken and rushed into the house." When they were seated in the cab. He replied: "Alight and enter the house. The carriage stopped. for instance. in spite of herself." She clung to the cab. a smile lurked beneath his mustache. Yesterday I was harsh. they are my bachelor apartments which I have rented for a few days that we might have a corner in which to meet. on learning that he was to marry Madeleine Forestier. You can lower the shade on your side and you will be well concealed. Have you forgiven me?" He pressed her hand. her lips. I was afraid to remain alone with you. but I wanted to escape you at any price. He seized her arm: "It is here. "I swear to respect you. startled at the thought of a tete-a-tete. Make haste!" And he repeated. Du Roy opened the door. loving you as I do?" She looked at him with a beseeching air: "Listen: You must promise to respect me. meet me in five minutes at the gate which opens on the boulevard." "Very well. her eyes. tortured. while he thought: "That is a matter of indifference to me. hiding her face and murmuring in broken accents: "I swear that I have never had a lover". that a crowd is gathering around us. "At my rooms. she asked: "Where did you tell the coachman to drive to?" Georges replied: "Do not worry. why should I not forgive you. We shall be undisturbed there." When he had closed the door. otherwise I could never see you again. you see that people are looking at us. I shall die of fear here." He had given the man his address on the Rue de Constantinople."
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He said firmly: "I swear to respect you. he showered kisses upon her neck.

" The morning of the reopening of the Chamber. The Du Roys had spent the entire summer in Paris. She was very different from what he had fancied she would be. MADAME DE MARELLE Autumn had come. At three successive meetings she had been a prey to remorse. bringing dispatches or information. For six weeks he had ineffectually tried to break with Mme. On entering the office. at which hour he was to meet Mme." She answered philosophically: "He who lives will see. Du Roy sauntered slowly toward the office to commence his work. After listening to Laroche-Mathieu's eloquence for some time with jealousy in his heart. They met there regularly twice a week. he uttered threats and insinuations against the "parvenu. he was handed a sealed dispatch. perhaps they will find out some day.CHAPTER XIII
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. But she persecuted him with her affection. and began to be respected: it was no longer the organ of a group of political intriguers. summoned him at all times by telegrams to meet her at street corners. It was quoted. Walter. when Du Roy was alone with Madeleine. repeating: "Become a minister and you can do the same. After the minister had departed. hoping that the affair would end in that way. It seemed to him that being the mother of a family. but with the tears of a Dido and not of a Juliette." in favor of the new cabinet. the chamber was about to resume its sessions. for a political article the following day in "La Vie Francaise. Walter. and have yielded With tears if she chose." He exclaimed: "Heavens! what a bore!" and left the office at once. a woman of the world. M. Du Roy lunched with Laroche-Mathieu in order to receive instructions from him. Angered by those scenes and already weary of the dramatic woman. It is important. and every newspaper in Paris and the provinces sought information from it. He never heard her
." as he called him. The president of the council had even dined there twice. It disgusted him to hear her call him: "My rat--my dog--my treasure. your friend until death. or public gardens. be silent. before the session. and had overwhelmed her lover with reproaches. the minister of foreign affairs was quite at home at the Du Roys." His reply was: "No one knows of what I am capable. "La Vie Francaise" had gained considerable prestige by its connection with the power. de Marelle at Rue de Constantinople. she should have been more sedate. Mondays and Wednesdays. it was from Mme. Expect me at two o'clock at Rue de Constantinople. he came at any hour. leading a vigorous campaign in "La Vie Francaise." "VIRGINIE. he had simply avoided her. Walter retired discreetly into the background. I can render you a great service. trying to attract him by actions ridiculous in one of her age. Laroche. in shops. which he dictated either to the husband or wife as if they were his secretaries. too much annoyed to work. it was the first to give political news. His wife simply shrugged her shoulders scornfully. Madeleine's salon became an influential center in which several members of the cabinet met every week.Mathieu was the soul of the journal and Du Roy his speaking-trumpet. The celebrated speech made by Count de Lambert Sarrazin had furnished Du Roy with material for ten articles on the Algerian colony. and read thus: "It is absolutely necessary that I should see you to-day. feared. but the avowed mouthpiece of the cabinet. for he had nothing to do until four o'clock. for affairs in Morocco were becoming menacing. Although it was only the early part of October. until then.-my jewel--my blue-bird"--and to see her assume a kind of childish modesty when he approached." which was to be a sort of official declaration of the plans of the cabinet.

followed him in a cab with drawn blinds to the office. he began to feel an unconquerable repugnance to the love lavished upon him by the mother. as he recalled the youthful one he had just left. de Marelle. Walter's. seeing him. hear her." He entered to await her. and the discovery caused her unutterable anguish. "How unkind you are to me." without wishing to reply "Old woman. I will give her to understand that I shall never cross her threshold again. Then. and when he was forced to return and dine at Mme. when he received the telegram above mentioned. provided they do not meet. Above all. She had raised her veil in order to kiss him. He ceased calling upon her. He re-read it as he walked along. Maisons. she made sport of everything and everybody with cutting appropriateness. At length. to make her comprehend that all was at an end between them. exclaimed: "Ah. "Ah. she persisted in devising ruses for summoning him to Rue de Constantinople. but Du Roy. but he controlled himself on account of his position on "La Vie Francaise" and he endeavored by means of coldness. I will see. but she watched him. he detested his mature mistress more thoroughly. He strolled toward the appointed place of meeting. who feared an encounter with Mme. and yielding to her appeals. too. and approached him timidly and humbly with the air of a beaten dog. What do you want?" he asked ungraciously. I will receive her in such a manner that she will not tell me anything. he could no longer see her. They were both Bohemians by nature. and Poissy. invented a thousand and one pretexts in order to avoid that rendezvous. however. for she never permitted anything to interfere with her ordinary occupations of life. they took excursions together to Argenteuil. At first they had often met at Rue de Constantinople. mentally cursing Mme. in the hope of seeing him pass by. First of all. However. He was congratulating himself upon having freed himself almost entirely from the former's clutches. how harshly you speak! What have I done to you? You do not know what I have suffered for you!" He muttered: "Are you going to begin that again?"
. He would have liked to strangle her. Georges enjoyed being thrown so much in contact with Suzanne.CHAPTER XIII
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call him "Little one" or "Baby. She finally divined that he no longer loved her. I must get rid of the other one at three or soon after. replying to her letters. de Marelle had increased during the summer. He was therefore obliged to either lunch or dine at her house daily. to his house. On the other hand. nor think of her without anger. when she would clasp his hand under cover of the table or offer him her lips behind the doors. He thought: "What does that old owl want with me? I am certain she has nothing to tell me except that she adores me. Walter. she lived by his side and seemed to love him very much at the proper time. his affection for Mme. and he was in constant fear that the two women would some day meet face to face at the door." to take his hat with an oath and leave the room. who was the only one who did not torment him. and even at times harsh words. What jades women are!" As he uttered those words he was reminded of his wife. I received it at the office just as I was setting out for the Chamber. you received my dispatch! How fortunate!" "Yes. perhaps there is some truth in it. Clotilde is coming at four. She soon arrived and. Bougival.

my dear." He interrupted her: "I know it. Her voice grew steadier: "No. she told him how they had little by little bought up. and whispered: "You need not have won me to treat me thus. you are crying again! Good evening! Is it for this that you sent for me?" She took a step forward in order to bar the way. I pay attention to what is talked of around me. while she drew up a stool and took her seat at his feet. how when the expedition was entered upon the French government would guarantee the debt. You were mature when you gave yourself to me. a word of encouragement. you might have left me virtuous and happy. through agents who aroused no suspicions. I am infinitely grateful. but I had never loved. to cast herself into his arms. He sank into an armchair. When she began to weep. but you have had two children. Neither of us is free.CHAPTER XIII
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She stood near him awaiting a smile. She continued: "As I think of you continually. and drawing a handkerchief from her pocket she wiped her eyes. I came to--to give you--political news--to give you the means of earning fifty thousand francs--or even more if you wish to." "Sit down. and he told me the cabinet's plans!" "No. you have told me that twenty times." said Georges." Du Roy placed his hat upon a chair and listened attentively. I was no longer a young girl. I am much obliged to you. she burst into tears." and she proceeded to tell him what she had heard relative to the expedition to Tangiers which had been decided upon the day that Laroche assumed his office. he took his hat: "Ah. which had fallen to sixty-four or sixty-five francs. because they feared their secret would be made known. "They are going to take possession of Morocco!" "Why. my God. the Moroccan loan. be silent! I can never see you a moment without hearing that refrain. Walter advised the minister not to let you into the secret for you would expose it."
. receive me! My God. how coarse and villainous! No. He cried: "Are you sure of that?" She replied: "Yes. it was all a caprice. and now it is at an end!" She said: "How brutal you are." Suddenly softened he asked: "How?" "By chance last evening I heard a conversation between my husband and Laroche. but I need not be tied to your apron-strings until I die! You have a husband and I a wife." She drew back as if she had been struck: "Oh. and their friends would make fifty or sixty millions. never wavered in my dignity. Do you remember what you said to me in the church and how you forced me to enter this house? And now this is the way you speak to me. they have deceived you. I am sure. Georges!" And pressing her hands to her heart. how you maltreat me!" He stamped his foot and said violently: "Enough. I lunched with Laroche this morning.

" He hesitated at first.that the payments were made by Walter's bank." She was so delighted that she rose. If it succeeds. She pointed out to him that he had led the political campaign in "La Vie Francaise." "Very well. she twisted it tightly around. Georges. instead. as she did so. I have a headache."
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She tried to persuade him by telling him that she advanced nothing-." She raised her eyes to his--eyes full of supplication.
. When he rose. not to-day. there is something you can do without borrowing money." She gazed at him sadly. "I will do it. "I have thought of that. As he still hesitated. but when she grew more lavish with her caresses. my darling. There will be nothing to pay at once. then she twisted another around another button and so on. and kissed him. It would be an invisible bond between them. and if you love me a little. you will let me lend it to you. almost harshly: "No. if not." She reseated herself with docility at his feet and asked: "Will you dine with us to-morrow? It would give me such pleasure. "it is only seventy-two francs. you will owe me ten thousand which you can repay at your pleasure. If we lose I will pay you back ten thousand francs." said he. Involuntarily he would think. one of her long black hairs caught on a button. took his head between her hands. he muttered: "One might profit by that!" "You too can buy some stock. certainly." "No. I do not like those combinations. that will do." He said again: "No. I will take twenty thousand and you can have half. I intended buying ten thousand francs' worth of the stock. he would love her a little more the next day. I can no longer even embrace you." He replied abruptly." said she. dearest." "Thank you." She rubbed her cheek against the young man's vest. after a moment's reflection. and you have done enough for him to offset that sum. he would tear them out of her head.CHAPTER XIII He continued: "That is indeed fine! As for that rascal of a Laroche. indeed. but dared not refuse." She whispered imploringly: "Listen. he said: "Come. "Oh. At first he did not repulse her. she added: "It is in reality Walter who will advance the money. let him beware! I will get his ministerial carcass between my fingers yet!" Then. would dream of her." and that he would be very simple not to profit by the results he had helped to bring about. we will make seventy thousand francs. "Yes. and would carry away with him unwittingly a lock of her hair." He replied: "But I have no ready money.

"
. She asked: "Can you come to dinner to-morrow? He will be delighted to see you. dearest. She too. and bluntly interrupting Mme. Walter's they irritated and nauseated him. as if needles had been stuck into her head." She sighed: "Already!" Then adding resignedly: "Go. Walter. there is no danger." He smiled as he saw her take the seat a short while since occupied by Mme. my darling." She took off her hat. called him "darling. while from Mme. she rose abruptly. Tell him to maintain absolute silence. Tell him from me to buy to-morrow ten thousand francs' worth of Moroccan stock which is at seventy-two. she examined the scarcely perceptible thread more closely and said: "It is not Madeleine's. it is dark. sit down in the armchair. I cannot be absent to-day. I will tell my husband this evening. I dine at the Walters." She had eaten all of her bonbons and began to toy with the buttons on his vest. then she offered him her lips which he brushed lightly as he said: "Come. but you will come to dinner tomorrow".CHAPTER XIII
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Suddenly he said: "I must leave you. he will not speak of it. he can be depended upon. "Adieu." He smiled. let us hurry. for I am expected at the Chamber for the close of the session." "No. little one. He pointed to a bag on the mantelpiece: "I bought you some sweetmeats. my darling. he repeated her words and they separated. I shall not leave one. Come. Suddenly he remembered the seventy thousand francs he was going to make. I am going to intrust you with a message to your husband. and said: "They are delicious. come. He took her in his arms and kissed her eyes coldly. I will sit at your feet and eat my bonbons. Suddenly she drew a long hair out of the buttonhole and began to laugh. She was somewhat late because her husband had come home for a week. is decided upon. it is after three o'clock. you are a faithful husband!" Then growing serious." She clapped her hands. and that the French government will guarantee the Moroccan debt. remember!" She listened to him gravely and murmured: "Thank you. de Marelle's chatter." She passed out before him saying: "To-morrow at seven". Tell him that the expedition to Tangiers. tasted one. but she was glad to have suffered for him. stinging pain. "It probably belongs to the housemaid. It is a state secret I am confiding to you. You may rely upon him. "See! Here is one of Madeleine's hairs. For a moment she felt a sharp. he said: "Listen." said she. Du Roy returned at four o'clock to await his mistress. and I predict that before three months are passed he will have made eighty thousand francs." and the words seemed to him sweet and caressing from her lips. "What a darling you are!" She took them. We have a great many political and financial matters to talk over.

First of all he would become a deputy. he turned toward home.CHAPTER XIII
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But she glanced at the vest with the care of a police-inspector and found a second hair twisted around a second button. nervous cry: "Oh. and turning pale and trembling somewhat. he had forgotten to inquire for Count de Vaudrec. With her woman's instinct she had divined their meaning and gasped in her anger. she burst into tears and buried her face in her hands. thinking of a thousand things--of the fortune he would make. then he would buy the chronometer. torn by anguish. sir. said: "I am going to him--do not worry about me--I do not know what time I shall return--do not expect me. then he would speculate on 'Change. "The Count is very ill. some woman has left hairs around all your buttons." Then he added: "What shall you do?" She rose." In surprise. de Vaudrec? I have heard that he has been ailing of late. He strolled to the boulevard and stopped at a jeweler's to look at a chronometer he had wanted for some time and which would cost eighteen hundred francs. He thought with joy: "If I make my seventy thousand francs. indeed. He reached Rue Drouot when he paused."
. he stammered: "Why you--you are mad. His wife had returned. Suddenly she conquered her grief and wiping her eyes. Walter. He was not at all uneasy as to Clotilde's anger. Oh. the gout has reached his heart. When he asked the janitor of the house in which Count de Vaudrec lived: "How is M. When he found that he was alone. he cursed Mme. He jumped into a cab and drove home. preferring to confer with Madeleine before seeing Walter again and writing his article. No.--of that rascal of a Laroche. you are a traitor. her face was livid. bathed his face. He attempted to detain her and stammered: "No--Clo--you are absurd-." She rose.I do not know whose it is--listen--stay--see--stay--" But she repeated: "Keep your old woman--keep her--have a chain made of her hair--of her gray hair--there is enough for that--" Hastily she donned her hat and veil. I can pay for it"--and he began to dream of all the things he would do when he got the money. and made her escape while he was stunned by the blow. and then." She continued to unwind the hairs and cast them upon the floor." She uttered a shrill. and of old Walter. they think he will not live through the night. shaken by sobs. That time he would not pardon. and when he attempted to touch her she struck him in the face. and then--he did not enter the office. He entered her room out of breath: "Did you know? Vaudrec is dying!" She was reading a letter and turning to him asked: "What did you say?" "I said that Vaudrec is dying of an attack of gout. it is an old woman's hair--here is a white one--you have taken a fancy to an old woman now. He retraced his steps with a light heart. who lived on Chaussee d'Antin. She remained standing." Du Roy was so startled he did not know what to do! Vaudrec dying! He stammered: "Thanks--I will call again"--unconscious of what he was saying. knowing that she would soon forgive him. then she saw a third. Then you do not need me--keep the other one. she exclaimed: "Oh. ready to cry: "She loves you and she wished you to carry away with you something of hers." the man replied. and went out vowing vengeance.

and set out again.
. Georges sat up in bed and asked: "Well?" He had never seen her so pale and agitated. He continued: "Had he any relatives at his death-bed?" "Only a nephew. He took it."
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They shook hands and she left in such haste that she forgot her gloves. smoking." said he." "Ah! Did he often see that nephew?" "They had not met for ten years. She whispered: "He is dead!" "Ah--and--he told you nothing?" "Nothing." "Will that nephew be his heir?" "I do not know. She extinguished the light. He wrote it according to the minister's instructions." Her voice was tearful and unsteady. after dining alone. He retired and fell asleep." Questions which he dared not ask arose to Georges' lips. began to write his article. conversed several moments with M. I believe not. hinting to the readers that the expedition to Morocco would not take place. very. He looked upon Mme." "Had he other relatives?" "No. Walter. Suddenly he thought he heard Madeleine crying. In order to insure himself he asked: "Are you asleep?" "No. Georges. He was unconscious when I arrived. not exactly--one or two millions perhaps. with a light heart. Go.CHAPTER XIII He replied: "Very well." "Was Vaudrec very rich?" "Yes." "Do you know what he was worth?" "No. She disrobed hastily and slipped into bed. "Lie down and rest." He said no more. he knew not why. His wife had not returned. to the office. Toward midnight Madeleine came home. He could not sleep. Walter's promised seventy thousand francs as very insignificant. when completed.

"
. he came at any time. passing by the coffin. I have mine which I desire to keep. At length Georges said. When he concluded she asked: "How did you know that?" He replied: "Pardon me if I do not tell you! You have your means of obtaining information into which I do not inquire. my friend?" "That Vaudrec left us nothing. as if talking to himself: "Truly it is very astonishing!" Madeleine asked: "What." "Madame: Kindly call at my office at a quarter past two o'clock Tuesday. he closed his eyes and fell asleep.
CHAPTER XIV
. she paid no heed to his proximity. The ceremony was just over. Wednesday.CHAPTER XIV He continued: "I forgot to tell you that your minister has deceived us. they were both preoccupied. 17 Rue des Vosges. and turning toward the wall. I would not care for much--a remembrance to prove that he thought of us--that he recognized the affection we felt for him. He loved you as a father. and by Count de Vaudrec's nephew. only a nephew. They did not speak." She said with a pensive and indifferent air: "It is possible that there is a will." He replied: "That is possible. they walked along side by side on their way home." As she spoke Georges drew near her." "How?"
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He gave her a detailed account of the combination prepared by Laroche and Walter. and over the door a large escutcheon surmounted by a coronet announced to the passers-by that a nobleman was being buried. LAMANEUR." She muttered: "It may be possible. who shook hands and returned salutations. Notary. there should be a will. I suspected that they were doing something without our knowledge. no brothers nor sisters." She blushed and said: "Why should he leave us anything? Had he any reason for doing so?" Then after several moments of silence. We should certainly have a mark of friendship. THE WILL The church was draped in black. He dined with us twice a week. the footman handed Madeleine a letter. we should not know of it. "OFFICE OF M. She opened it and offered it to her husband. I can vouch at any rate for the truth of my statements. those present went out slowly. or Thursday. for he was our best friend. Yes. she continued: "Perhaps there is a will at a lawyer's. no children. however. When Georges du Roy and his wife left the church. on business which concerns you. he was at home with us. he had no family." When they entered the house.

which would prove. As death might take me away at any moment. I bequeath all my fortune. which was supported by legs so short that they too almost resembled balls.
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"That is as it should be. and respectful affection. Claire Madeleine Forestier. It is strange.'" The notary said: "That is all. Paul Emile Cyprien Gontran. comprising stocks and bonds for six hundred thousand francs and landed property for five hundred thousand. Can you let me have your reply before Saturday?"
. The world often judges uncharitably." "Shall we go at once?" she asked." The notary continued: "I shall read you the document which is very brief. to Mme." Georges. and replied pleasantly: "I comprehend the scruples which cause you to hesitate. Claire Madeleine du Roy unconditionally." "LAMANEUR." The notary smiled. that Count de Vaudrec had not changed his mind. that he should write to you and not to me. in his turn. here express my last wishes. the undersigned. Lamaneur's office. His head looked like a ball fastened to another ball. sound both in body and mind. In my opinion the will cannot be broken." Madeleine cast down her eyes. in case of contestation on the part of the family. "Yes. de Vaudrec's nephew. who was informed this morning of his uncle's last wishes. Lamaneur. The notary was a short. bowed." Du Roy rose and said shortly: "I ask time for reflection.CHAPTER XIV "Yours respectfully. I sent for you in order to inform you of Count de Vaudrec's will. I have the first will." Georges could not help muttering: "I suspected that. Georges nervously twisted his mustache. Count de Vaudrec. which will be of interest to you. expresses himself as ready to respect them if he be given one hundred thousand francs. pointed to seats. however." After luncheon they set out for M. I should like to. to be deposited with M. colored." "'I. profound. round man--round all over. her cheeks were pale. That document bears the date of August last. turning to Madeleine: "Madame. and said. for I am the head of the family legally. The notary continued after a moment's pause: "It is of course understood that Madame cannot accept that legacy without your consent. He bowed. as Du Roy and his wife were shown into his office. but a lawsuit would cause a sensation which you would probably like to avoid. I beg her to accept that gift from a dead friend as a proof of devoted. I wish to take the precaution of drawing up my will.'" "'Having no direct heirs. and took the place of one of the same nature made two years ago in the name of Mme. I may add that M.

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Georges bowed, and together with his wife left the office. When they arrived home, Du Roy closed the door and throwing his hat on the bed, asked: "What were the relations between you and Vaudrec?" Madeleine, who was taking off her veil, turned around with a shudder: "Between us?" "Yes, between you and him! One does not leave one's entire fortune to a woman unless--" She trembled, and could scarcely take out the pins which fastened the transparent tissue. Then she stammered in an agitated manner: "You are mad--you are--you are--you did not think--he would leave you anything!" Georges replied, emphazing each word: "Yes, he could have left me something; me, your husband, his friend; but not you, my wife and his friend. The distinction is material in the eyes of the world." Madeleine gazed at him fixedly: "It seems to me that the world would have considered a legacy from him to you very strange." "Why?" "Because,"--she hesitated, then continued: "Because you are my husband; because you were not well acquainted; because I have been his friend so long; because his first will, made during Forestier's lifetime, was already in my favor." Georges began to pace to and fro. He finally said: "You cannot accept that." She answered indifferently: "Very well; it is not necessary then to wait until Saturday; you can inform M. Lamaneur at once." He paused before her, and they gazed into one another's eyes as if by that mute and ardent interrogation they were trying to examine each other's consciences. In a low voice he murmured: "Come, confess your relations." She shrugged her shoulders. "You are absurd. Vaudrec was very fond of me, very, but there was nothing more, never." He stamped his foot. "You lie! It is not possible." She replied calmly: "It is so, nevertheless." He resumed his pacing to and fro; then pausing again, he said: "Explain to me, then, why he left all his fortune to you." She did so with a nonchalant air: "It is very simple. As you said just now, we were his only friends, or rather, I was his only friend, for he knew me when a child. My mother was a governess in his father's house. He came here continually, and as he had no legal heirs, he selected me. It is possible that he even loved me a little. But what woman has never been loved thus? He brought me flowers every Monday. You were never surprised at that, and he never brought you any. To-day he leaves me his fortune for the same reason, because he had no one else to leave it to. It would on the other hand have been extremely surprising if he had left it to you." "Why?" "What are you to him?"

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She spoke so naturally and so calmly that Georges hesitated before replying: "It makes no difference; we cannot accept that bequest under those conditions. Everyone would talk about it and laugh at me. My fellow-journalists are already too much disposed to be jealous of me and to attack me. I have to be especially careful of my honor and my reputation. I cannot permit my wife to accept a legacy of that kind from a man whom rumor has already assigned to her as her lover. Forestier might perhaps have tolerated that, but I shall not." She replied gently: "Very well, my dear, we will not take it; it will be a million less in our pockets, that is all." Georges paced the room and uttered his thoughts aloud, thus speaking to his wife without addressing her: "Yes, a million--so much the worse. He did not think when making his will what a breach of etiquette he was committing. He did not realize in what a false, ridiculous position he was placing me. He should have left half of it to me--that would have made matters right." He seated himself, crossed his legs and began to twist the ends of his mustache, as was his custom when annoyed, uneasy, or pondering over a weighty question. Madeleine took up a piece of embroidery upon which she worked occasionally, and said: "I have nothing to say. You must decide." It was some time before he replied; then he said hesitatingly: "The world would never understand how it was that Vaudrec constituted you his sole heiress and that I allowed it. To accept that legacy would be to avow guilty relations on your part and an infamous lack of self-respect on mine. Do you know how the acceptance of it might be interpreted? We should have to find some adroit means of palliating it. We should have to give people to suppose, for instance, that he divided his fortune between us, giving half to you and half to me." She said: "I do not see how that can be done, since there is a formal will." He replied: "Oh, that is very simple. We have no children; you can therefore deed me part of the inheritance. In that way we can silence malignant tongues." She answered somewhat impatiently: "I do not see how we can silence malignant tongues since the will is there, signed by Vaudrec." He said angrily: "Do you need to exhibit it, or affix it to the door? You are absurd! We will say that the fortune was left us jointly by Count de Vaudrec. That is all. You cannot, moreover, accept the legacy without my authority; I will only consent on the condition of a partition which will prevent me from becoming a laughing-stock for the world." She glanced sharply at him: "As you will. I am ready." He seemed to hesitate again, rose, paced the floor, and avoiding his wife's piercing gaze, he said: "No--decidedly no--perhaps it would be better to renounce it altogether--it would be more correct--more honorable. From the nature of the bequest even charitably-disposed people would suspect illicit relations." He paused before Madeleine. "If you like, my darling, I will return to M. Lamaneur's alone, to consult him and to explain the matter to him. I will tell him of my scruples and I will add that we have agreed to divide it in order to avoid any scandal. From the moment that I accept a portion of the inheritance it will be evident that there is nothing wrong. I can say: 'My wife accepts it because I, her husband, accept'--I, who am the best judge of what she can do without compromising herself."

CHAPTER XIV Madeleine simply murmured: "As you wish."

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He continued: "Yes, it will be as clear as day if that is done. We inherit a fortune from a friend who wished to make no distinction between us, thereby showing that his liking for you was purely Platonic. You may be sure that if he had given it a thought, that is what he would have done. He did not reflect--he did not foresee the consequences. As you said just now, he offered you flowers every week, he left you his wealth." She interrupted him with a shade of annoyance: "I understand. No more explanations are necessary. Go to the notary at once." He stammered in confusion: "You are right; I will go." He took his hat, and, as he was leaving the room, he asked: "Shall I try to compromise with the nephew for fifty thousand francs?" She replied haughtily: "No. Give him the hundred thousand francs he demands, and take them from my share if you wish." Abashed, he murmured: "No, we will share it. After deducting fifty thousand francs each we will still have a million net." Then he added: "Until later, my little Made." He proceeded to the notary's to explain the arrangement decided upon, which he claimed originated with his wife. The following day they signed a deed for five hundred thousand francs, which Madeleine du Roy gave up to her husband. On leaving the office, as it was pleasant, Georges proposed that they take a stroll along the boulevards. He was very tender, very careful of her, and laughed joyously while she remained pensive and grave. It was a cold, autumn day. The pedestrians seemed in haste and walked along rapidly. Du Roy led his wife to the shop into the windows of which he had so often gazed at the coveted chronometer. "Shall I buy you some trinket?" he asked. She replied indifferently: "As you like." They entered the shop: "What would you prefer, a necklace, a bracelet, or earrings?" The sight of the brilliant gems made her eyes sparkle in spite of herself, as she glanced at the cases filled with costly baubles. Suddenly she exclaimed: "There is a lovely bracelet." It was a chain, very unique in shape, every link of which was set with a different stone. Georges asked: "How much is that bracelet?" The jeweler replied: "Three thousand francs, sir." "If you will let me have it for two thousand five hundred, I will take it." The man hesitated, then replied: "No, sir, it is impossible."

Walter bought it. he was M. had guaranteed the debt of the annexed country. The prince. I will go somewhere else." The journalist. interlaced below a baron's crown. tempted by the sum. Georges and Madeleine returned home late. to invite her to spend the evening with them. the next day."
CHAPTER XV
." Art critics enthusiastically declared it to be the most magnificent painting of the age. or even to remember their disagreement. Then they repaired to Mme. He issued an announcement in the papers that everyone was invited to come on a certain evening to see it. The gas was extinguished. to censure or approve his action. to envy him. It was rumored that two ministers. in a few days he had become one of the masters of the world--a financier more omnipotent than a king.CHAPTER XV
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Du Roy said: "See here--throw in this chronometer at fifteen hundred francs. that makes four thousand. with a triumphant smile: "The millionaires are passing by. Then another idea occurred to him--an idea of conquering all Paris--an idea a la Bonaparte. Georges rather dreaded the first meeting with Clotilde. even toward his wife. sir. His envious rage increased daily. The dinner. As for Walter. but she did not seem to bear him any malice. and he wished to prove it. If you do not agree. he proposed to buy it. now that he had a fortune he must have a title. R. Karl Marcovitch. Walter the wealthy Israelite. said: "You can have my initials G. in order to distinguish their images more clearly. and in order to light the way the journalist from time to time struck a match. thereby causing entire Paris to talk of him. and
. engraved on the chronometer. Walter. made use of him. accepted his offer. de Marelle's at Georges' suggestion. He was right. He was no longer the Jew. and said. was excellent. He had thought himself wealthy with the five hundred thousand francs extorted from his wife. exhibited by Jacques Lenoble and representing "Christ Walking on the Water. the director of a bank. she took his arm quite affectionately. the proprietor of a yellow newspaper. Du Roy raised his hand with the lighted match in it. entering. She thought him very shrewd and clever. and when they left the shop. which they took at a restaurant. and I will pay cash. Laroche-Mathieu being one of them. At that time everyone was raving over a painting by the Hungarian. France. They passed the Vaudeville on their way arid. Walter's success." The jeweler finally yielded. and above all toward the man who had deceived him. the mistress of Tangiers. C. had made twenty millions. after leaving his address. He offered three million francs for it. in surprise. and now he felt poor as he compared his paltry fortune with the shower of millions around him. smiled." Madeleine. SUZANNE Morocco had been conquered. secured a box. He cherished ill will toward everyone--toward the Walters. Du Roy was jealous of M. Knowing the straitened circumstances of the Prince de Carlsbourg who owned one of the fairest mansions on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore. Walter took possession of his new dwelling. "Very well. On reaching the landing on the first floor they saw their reflections in the mirror. and the evening altogether enjoyable.

Georges acted as his secretary. and a fresh. handed bouquets to the ladies. some one seized his arm. Your position is excellent. mouthpiece. "I suppose I shall have to go through with it. As he made his way through the throng." His only reply was to turn his back upon her. oriental rugs. too. He was delighted to see her. she was too wealthy. to appoint a meeting where he would. You have grieved us deeply. "I have been so busy for two months that I have been nowhere. the other in blue. She was surprised. at his constant ill humor. like a dog which wishes to bite and dares not. The few who intended to remain to the ball which was to follow wore evening dress. The majority of the ladies were in street costumes. Walter and mingled with the guests. I am bored to death. and when he wrote at his dictation. in order that she might give him the seventy thousand francs she had made for him. who merely shrugged her shoulders and treated him as one would a fretful child. here you are at last. as Madeleine chided him for not going. while Madeleine greeted her effusively. Georges left his wife near Mme. You see I tell you so frankly. The day of the exhibition of the picture. he would be inflexible. Not that he would have refused to accept his share of the profits. and walked through the rooms as if in a museum--without paying any heed to the host and hostess. he felt a mad desire to strangle him." she said. with her azure eyes and wealth of golden hair. he spoke to the servants as if he were their master. But he was often harsh and brutal to Madeleine. Mme. Many did not know her. and said: "I do not understand you. having taken the place of Count de Vaudrec. that you will
. The rooms were already well filled." "I shall be ready in fifteen minutes. As for myself. I cannot do without you. As they entered the courtyard of the Hotel de Carlsbourg it was one blaze of light. agent. he said suddenly. naughty Bel-Ami! Why do we never see you any more?" It was Suzanne Walter. Walter had written to him daily. Du Roy's heart was torn with jealousy. Five drawing. You are always complaining. they were carpeted with rich. and apologized as they shook hands. Walter. he replied: "Leave me in peace. He declared that he would not attend M. I shall remain at home. Walter's fete--that he would not cross the miserable Jew's threshold. for mamma and I adore you. He did not reply and threw her letters into the fire. He and his wife ascended the steps and gave their wraps to the footmen who approached them. beseeching him to come to see her. and upon each one stood a man in livery. a proof that they came thither as they would go to any exhibition. youthful voice whispered in his ear: "Ah. Georges submitted to it all. stood in the second salon and received the visitors. trampling her under foot. A magnificent carpet was spread upon the steps leading to the entrance. two children. At the entrance to the drawing-room.CHAPTER XV
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who dined twice a week at his house. For two months Mme. surrounded by friends.rooms opened one into the other. one in pink. If you are not here. When Virginie perceived Du Roy. but he enjoyed treating her scornfully. then she paused and waited for him to advance. Laroche reigned supreme in the Du Roy household. He bowed ceremoniously. as rigid as marble." After they had dined. she grew livid and made a movement toward him. Get ready quickly." She replied gravely: "That is too bad. and upon their walls hung paintings by the old masters.

" She pretended to be angry. oh. you are too wealthy. I will show you 'Christ Walking on the Water' myself. perhaps. Give me your arm. this is the kind of house in which to live. It is astonishing how proud papa is of this house. I would have married her. He looked at her and thought once more: "If I only had taken her!" Suddenly Suzanne seemed to awaken from her reverie. We cannot even keep a carriage on that. Suddenly Georges heard a voice say: "That is Laroche and Mme. and then turned away." She cried frankly: "Oh. Mademoiselle. or Madame la Princesse. and you will look down upon me." And longing. It is a mere pittance nowadays. on the edges of which four large swans of delftware emitted the water from their beaks. bitter longing possessed him. To their left. He replied: "We shall see. patted his arm with her fan." "Barely twenty thousand livres a year. in the meantime. corrupting all his pleasure. have inherited some money. to make room for others. Du Roy gazed at it for some time.
. Suzanne said: "You must come often." As they walked through the rooms. and vowed that she would marry according to the dictates of her heart." Slowly they traversed the crowded rooms." They had. I shall not! I shall choose some one I love very dearly." He smiled ironically and said: "I give you six months. was the picture. behind the conservatory. Why can I not have one?" His companion did not speak. She asked: "Would you like a glass of champagne? We will go to the buffet. One had to look closely at it in order to understand it. was a marble basin. Suzanne's tiny hand still rested upon his arm. forty thousand a year. By that time you will be Madame la Marquise. It was a grand work--the work of a master--one of those triumphs of art which furnishes one for years with food for thought. we have a million together. and we shall never meet any more. Bel-Ami. and before them lay the conservatory with its rare shrubs and plants. I am rich enough for two. "Come." said she. we can do anything we like now papa is rich." "But your wife has the same. all turned to look at that handsome man and that bewitching girl. Before him. surrounded by verdure on all sides. The journalist stopped and said to himself: "This is luxury. you will soon marry--some prince." He replied: "Oh. it is at the very end. Papa put it back there so that everyone would be obliged to go through the rooms. Why did I never think of it? How could I have taken the other one? What folly! One always acts too hastily--one never reflects sufficiently. dragging Georges through a group which barred their way. A well-known painter said: "There is a fine couple. Madame la Duchesse. rendering life odious. under a dome of palms. we shall find papa there. too." "You. reached the last drawing-room." "Yes." Georges thought: "If my position had been made. and turning him to the right.CHAPTER XV
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not remain away like that any more.

She continued in a low voice: "How cruel you are! How needlessly you inflict suffering
. de Marelle admired Karl Marcovitch's painting. What a brilliant match he might have made with little Suzanne! How could he have been so blind? They reached the dining-room with its marble columns and walls hung with old Gobelins tapestry. He fancied he saw some people whisper. he found himself face to face with M. The thirsty crowd stopped him. Bel." M. It was Norbert de Varenne. here you are! Now. and he felt a desire to fall upon those two beings and smite them to the earth. Mme. The old poet said: "This is what they call amusing themselves. He had often met the wife. when he had made his way through it. and Mme. She would be a stumbling-block in his path. both of them almost hidden behind a group of plants. you are going to be left alone. Walter. They seemed to say: "We are having a meeting in public.CHAPTER XV du Roy. it is excellent. His wife was making a laughing-stock of him. and Suzanne is pretty in the bargain. de Marelle said: "There are two girls who will have twenty or thirty millions each." Then he pounced upon Senator Rissolin and his wife."
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He turned and saw his wife passing upon the minister's arm. de Marelle bowed." The two young people disappeared in the crowd." Mme. who had gone off with the Marquis de Cazolles. Some one seized his arm. After a while they will dance. How long had she known him? Since she had become wealthy no doubt. "Very well. de Marelle. As they crossed the conservatory he saw his wife seated near Laroche-Mathieu. for we do not care for the world's opinion. Suzanne met them at a door and cried: "Oh.Ami. Husband and wife should always be separated. Who was she? A shrewd little parvenue. "Have you seen everything? Say." He did not reply. if he had known. for I shall take Clotilde to see my room. followed by the husband. He saw in him a possible suitor." He made no reply. as they gazed at them. but he had not met the husband for some time. Du Roy replied: "In exchange for that service I shall take your wife. At that moment a voice at his side murmured: "Georges!" It was Mme. They were talking in low tones and smiling into each other's eyes. He took Clotilde to see the painting. the latter grasped both of his hands and thanked him for the message he had sent him by Clotilde relative to the stocks." And the two women glided through the throng. he left Norbert de Varenne abruptly and went in pursuit of the young girl. and they turned to repair to the other rooms. and he was suddenly inspired with jealousy. Take some champagne. de Marelle. Georges heard her call him Marquis de Cazolles." Georges scarcely heard his words. He asked: "Is Laurine still vexed with me?" "Yes. eh? Have you seen Prince de Guerche? he just drank a glass of punch. A gentleman greeted Suzanne--a tall. if he had foreseen. They were separated from M. Ah. Suzanne. He could never make his way with a wife who compromised him. have you shown him everything? What a lot of people. and hastened to shake hands. then they will retire. and the young girls will be satisfied. He was beside himself with joy. his own thought coming from the lips of another irritated him. If I lose you we can meet here again in an hour. or rather offer her my arm. slender man with fair whiskers and a worldly air. He was looking for Suzanne. She refuses to see you and goes away when you are mentioned. Walter spied his editor. The child's sudden enmity grieved and annoyed him. He would have played for higher stakes. that was all.

" But Jacques Rival detained him. I was so glad to make it for you." She shook her head: "Ah. I shall be at the place you named in ten minutes. I cannot accept that money. he saw Mme. When he reached the alley.CHAPTER XV
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upon me. cherished a vague project and replied: "My dear." "So much the better. however. At the end of it you will see an arbor. she exclaimed: "What have I done to you that you should treat me so?" He tried to push her away: "You twisted your hair around my coat buttons the last time we met. Expect me in ten minutes. if you will be reasonable. she held it toward Du Roy: "Here is your share of the profits in that Moroccan affair. Follow the walk directly in front of you. and it caused trouble between my wife and myself. or I shall leave you at once. capable of anything. It was one of your mistresses who made a scene. You will not refuse it. we must adhere to our rules. I want none of it! However. Listen: I must speak to you this evening--or--or--you do not know what I shall do. none of that." "I have none. she cried: "Ah. You cannot understand that your image. offering him her lips she cried in her despair: "One more kiss--one last kiss!" He gently drew back. then drawing from her bosom a package of notes tied with pink ribbon. closes my throat. yours alone. If you do not meet me. So I remain all day in my chair thinking of you. here you are! Do you wish to kill me?" He replied calmly: "I beseech you. you will not refuse it now! It is yours. When it lasts it becomes a drawback. I will throw it in the sewer." Throwing her arms around his neck. If you do not take it." She became excited: "Oh. I bade Suzanne take that woman away that I might have a word with you. Go into the conservatory. Can you do that?" She murmured: "I can do anything in order to see you. One loves and one ceases to love. I suffer terribly. "No. stifles me. Georges!" He took the package and slipped it into his pocket "We must return to the house. and leaves me scarcely strength enough to move my limbs in order to walk." "Indeed! Why do you never come to see me? Why do you refuse to dine with me even once a week? I have no other thoughts than of you." She turned her head and wiped away two tears." She gasped: "It is agreed". These were the words of a desperate woman. You will find a door to the left through which you can reach the garden." He refused: "No. I will come to see you as formerly. I swear I will cause a scandal here at once!" He replied haughtily: "Very well." "Then it is agreed that we are to be friends. your wife would not care. if I could but die!"
. you will take cold. Here. take it. Walter in front of him." He looked at her in astonishment. and will receive and treat me as a friend. He. nothing more. love is not eternal. always present.

do you really consider me a friend?" "Why. Walter." "Not a word. he asked: "Shall we go?" "Whenever you like." "You have faith in me?" "Perfect faith. yes. Bel-Ami." She took his arm and they passed through the almost deserted rooms. turned upon her heel and left them. I will gladly. I should like to bid her good-bye. for he had decided to leave at once. Du Roy." "You are right. In a short while. or rather the man you would marry. kissed it passionately." "Yes. my dear little one. Bel-Ami. Madeleine asked: "Where is Mme. your father wants you in the ballroom." Rival approached them saying: "Mademoiselle." "And it is to be a secret between us--not a word to your father or mother. She introduced her husband without naming them. He returned more leisurely." "Do you remember what I said to you a while since?" "About what?" "About your. and found her drinking chocolate at the buffet with two strange men. She would try to keep us in the ballroom.CHAPTER XV
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She seized his hand."
." She said: "Come. whom they teased about a certain Count. said in a caressing voice: "Listen. advanced toward him. The crowd had grown thinner. Suzanne. He went in search of his wife. wishing to be alone with his thoughts." "Well. finding himself alone with Suzanne. and fled toward the house. marriage. and I have had enough. Rose. will you promise me one thing?" "Yes." "Yes. what is it?" "To consult me when you receive a proposal and to accept no one without asking my advice. and entered the conservatory with head erect and smiling lips." "It is unnecessary." but he refused. leaning on her sister's arm. In a few moments. His wife and Laroche were no longer there.

he owes me a great deal more. placed it on the mantelpiece. The name was written in two words." She had expected a transport of delight and was irritated by his indifference. "You are incomprehensible. She was dressed in black and her hair was powdered.CHAPTER XV
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On the way home they did not speak. said to him with a smile: "I have a surprise for you. But when they had entered their room. then throwing the letter in the fire. then he closed it with a shrug of his shoulders and began to prepare to retire. At a distance
. Prosper Georges du Roy had been decorated with the Legion of Honor for exceptional services. "L'Officiel" of January 1 announced that M. however." He replied: "I should have much more. An hour after having read that notice. to celebrate his distinction. and said: "I should have preferred ten millions." He replied calmly: "That man is only paying his debts. they found Mme." In her surprise she exclaimed: "Why. Walter. he said to Madeleine: "We shall dine at the Walters' this evening. inviting him to come and bring his wife to dine with them that evening." When they arrived at Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore." "Yes. At first he hesitated. at your age. and that afforded Georges more pleasure than the decoration itself." "It is the season for New Year's gifts." She was astonished at his tone." He growled ill-naturedly: "What is it?" "Guess." His sole reply was: "I have changed my mind. without even taking off her veil. and looked for some minutes at the brilliant star within it. I thought you would never set your foot in their house again." He took the casket. That did not cost him much." "Yes. Walter alone in the dainty boudoir in which she received her intimate friends. which Laroche handed me just now. he received a note from Mme. and said: "It is very nice. He opened it indifferently and saw the cross of the Legion of Honor." She gave him a small black box which resembled a jewel-casket. He turned a trifle pale." "I cannot make the effort. Madeleine. then smiled." "Here is yours. Nothing seems to satisfy you." "The day after to-morrow is the first of January.

in my heart all day and all night. Walter replied in a firm voice. I have lost none of my relatives. It is unnecessary to speak of it again. saying: "I will never speak of anything to you again. I wear it to-day to inaugurate it. Often in a dark corner or behind a tree in the conservatory. I feel you. Mme. I love you! I love you desperately!" But he always repulsed her coldly. Walter never invited anyone else on that evening. Georges. I see you. in proximity. Walter stood by motionless. He had chosen Friday as his day. Madeleine. hitherto I have worn it in my heart. She was praying!" Mme. too. how simple and supernatural He is at the same time!" Suzanne cried: "Why. Madeleine. frequently dined there alone. Walter detained him as they were about to enter the salon. but I have arrived at an age when one should wear somber colors. The journalist was overwhelmed with congratulations. Bel-Ami! I am sure He looks like you. and Mme. saying: "If you persist in that. Mme. like a youthful one. after the meal. Mme." Toward the end of March people talked of the marriage of the two sisters: Rose was to marry. when all repaired to the drawing.CHAPTER XVI she appeared like an old lady.
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She replied sadly: "Yes and no. It is as if I had drunk a poison which preyed upon me. I cannot bear it. Walter thought it very singular. her cheeks as white as her hair." And pausing before the picture. He gives me fresh courage and strength every time that I look at Him.
CHAPTER XVI
." He replied calmly: "Very well. but come here--come from time to time as a friend. His eyes. staring fixedly at her lover's face. "Are you in mourning?" asked. I will not come again. remarked that Jesus looked more manly. in a voice in which vibrated a secret exaltation: "That Christ will save my soul. Rose seemed preoccupied. Madeleine pleading fatigue and preferring to remain at home. she murmured: "How beautiful He is! How frightened those men are. The subject of Suzanne's possible
. Count de Latour-Ivelin and Suzanne." "Only think. "I found my wife yesterday kneeling before that painting as if in a chapel.rooms. DIVORCE During the remainder of the winter. Walter embraced the young man and whispered in his ear: "I love you. I powdered my hair for that reason to-night. only come to see me. with a smile. The resemblance is striking. Dame Rumor said. Georges." The dinner was somewhat tedious. who had preceded them. the Du Roys often visited the Walters. awaited Du Roy near the picture of "Christ Walking on the Water. You see I came to-day on receipt of your letter." said he." Walter. He looks like you. the Marquis de Cazolles. Suzanne alone talked incessantly. with his two daughters and Madeleine. I would rather be as an old woman to you. it belonged to Bel-Ami. and how they love Him! Look at His head." She made him stand beside the painting and everyone recognized the likeness. It is impossible for me to live without you. Du Roy was embarrassed.

Walter to lunch. As Georges and Suzanne leaned over its edge. you have." She glanced at him: "What ails you?" He spoke as if tearing a secret from the depths of his heart: "I am. he said in a low voice: "It is not right of you to keep secrets from me. let us give the fish some bread. he whispered to Suzanne: "Come." "Why?"
. they saw their reflections in the water and smiled at them. you do. He is no match for you who are so pretty. the latter having been brought home by M. It is from that fop of a Marquis de Cazolles." "He is not a fop." "Yes." "Well?" "Well. He is not all that you say he is." She asked: "What secrets." She was astonished. Suzanne. "You?" "Yes."
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They proceeded to the conservatory in which was the marble basin containing the fish. Bel-Ami?" "Do you remember what you promised me here the night of the fete?" "No. so fresh.CHAPTER XVI marriage had not been broached again between her and Georges until one morning. you have received one!" "From whom?" "You know very well." "That may be.-I am jealous of him." "No. I swear I do not. Suddenly." "To consult me every time you received a proposal. I." "He is a fool. but he is stupid. and an intriguer. so bright!" She asked with a smile: "What have you against him?" "I? Nothing!" "Yes.

after having kissed his wife. wretched--I have no possible hope. After waiting ten minutes. He was the police commissioner. Bel-Ami!"
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He replied: "I know that I am! Should I confess it--I. When Du Roy arrived home. Georges entered the dining-room and ate slowly. I feel murder in my heart." He turned toward her abruptly and said: "If I were free would you marry me?" She replied: "Yes. looking at his watch from time to time. Du Roy lowered the shades. half gaily: "It is a pity that you are married. For some time he had watched and followed her. who was writing letters: "Shall you dine at the Walters' Friday? I am going. as he said. Suzanne. Guibert de Lorme at home?" "Yes. to you. and that thought almost destroys my reason. a young girl? I am worse than mad--I am culpable. sir.CHAPTER XVI "Because I love you and you know it" Then she said severely: "You are mad. he went in search of a cab. I implore you. Rue Lafayette." He paused. He mounted to the third story of a house in that street. I prefer to remain here.Faisan. but what can you do? It cannot be helped. in order. without saying adieu. and remain there until I order you to go on." "As you like. she whispered: "I promise. a tall man with a military bearing and gray hair entered. He said to the cabman: "You can stop at No. 17 Rue Fontaine." The cab rolled slowly on. At about six o'clock. You must forgive me. Bel-Ami." He was shown into the drawing-room. On Friday he dressed early. he kept watch of it. a married man. When I hear that you are going to be married. returned to the salon." She hesitated: "No. he saw Madeleine come out and go toward the boulevards. Walter's. No one will force you. and asked the maid who opened the door: "Is M. Promise me." Somewhat confused. When she was out of earshot. say yes to anyone. to make several calls before going to M. and after waiting some time.
. Suzanne. he asked Madeleine. I am not well. Wait a while. The young girl murmured half sadly. he put his head out of the window and cried: "Go on!" The cab proceeded on its way and stopped at the Coq-Faisan. as if he were beside himself. knowing all her actions. When in front of his house. At seven-thirty he left and drove to Rue La Rochefoucauld. I would marry you because I love you better than any of the others." He rose and stammering: "Thanks--thanks--do not." Du Roy threw a large piece of bread into the water and fled. in surprise." Then he took up his hat and went out. and without comprehending what he asked. The time he had awaited had come at length. Then you can take me to the restaurant Du Coq.

Prosper Georges du Roy." and he rushed into the room. or I will force the door." The footsteps receded and then returned. and looking into her eyes said: "You are Mme. he continued: "I am the police commissioner and I call upon you to tell me your name. we will force the door." "What are you doing here?" She made no reply. One officer remained at the door to watch the exit.CHAPTER XVI
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Du Roy bowed. and taking a piece of paper
." Receiving no reply he shook the door so violently that the old lock gave way. We have caught them. lawful wife of M. who had followed them through the rooms." In the meantime Madeleine had regained her composure. my wife is with her lover in furnished apartments they have rented on Rue des Martyrs." The voice repeated: "Who are you?" "I am the police commissioner. it is useless to try to escape us. Madame. evidently disguised. He waited several moments and then said: "If you do not confess. If you do not answer. then said: "As I suspected. and the young man almost fell over Madeleine. sir. her feet bare. I shall be forced to inquire into the matter." And with three other officers they proceeded to the house in which Du Roy expected to surprise his wife. and a woman's voice. Claire Madeleine du Roy. Laroche. The officer again asked: "Who are you?" As the man did not reply. Du Roy advanced softly and uncovered the livid face of M. I have a cab below. asked: "Who is there?" The police officer replied: "Open in the name of the law. Open. her hair loosened. in one of which were the remnants of a supper. The commissioner turned to Madeleine. They heard a light step approach. sir. and a candle in her hand. here present?" She replied: "Yes. still she did not reply. and seeing that all was lost. In any case." The magistrate bowed: "I am at your service." They could see a man's form concealed beneath the covers of the bed." The voice continued: "What do you want?" Du Roy interrupted: "It is I. In two or three minutes Georges rang again several times in succession. Du Roy rang the bell and they waited. she was determined to put a brave face upon the matter." "Very well. He exclaimed: "It is she. I will interrogate you when you are dressed.Mathieu. Her eyes sparkled with the audacity of bravado. rise. I shall be forced to arrest you. Georges said: "If you do not open. who was standing in the antechamber in her petticoat. on the second floor they halted. The officer repeated his question.

The officer continued: "Sir.
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In the meantime the man in the bed had dressed himself and advanced. With a rapid gesture he tore the decoration from his buttonhole and throwing it in the fire exclaimed: "That is what a decoration is worth which is given by a scoundrel of your order." An hour later Georges du Roy entered the office of "La Vie Francaise. Walter was there. he raised his head and asked: "What." The commissioner stepped between them.CHAPTER XVI she lighted the ten candles in the candelabra as if for a reception. I am inviolable. hat in hand. saying: "Gentlemen. minister." The magistrate made several notes. are you here? Why are you not dining at my house? Where have you come from?" Georges replied with emphasis: "I have just found out something about the minister of foreign affairs." and pointing to Georges' breast. I have surprised you alone with Mme. asked: "Do you need me any longer. he added. will you tell me who you are?" "For once that miserable fellow has not lied. Madame." Then the man cried: "Do not touch me." Du Roy turned pale. and began to smoke. we will leave you alone together. we have finished. minister of foreign affairs. the minister. sir? Can I go?" Du Roy addressed him with an insolent smile: "Why should you go. who stood ready. The commissioner of police was my witness.Mathieu. sir. I am indeed Laroche. "and that scoundrel wears upon his coat the cross of honor which I gave him. that this gentleman is your lover?" She replied boldly: "I do not deny it. seeming not to see her husband. taking the officer's arm." Du Roy rushed toward him exclaiming: "I can have you arrested if I want to!" Then he added: "This man's name is Laroche-Mathieu. do your duty. he said: "Let us go. "I see I shall have to arrest you." "What?" "I found him alone with my wife in hired apartments. sir. The minister is ruined."
. a smile hovering about her lips." The commissioner turned to Madeleine: "Do you confess. took a cigarette out of a case." Madeleine smoked on calmly. we have nothing more to do in this place. will you tell me who you are?" He made no reply. That is sufficient. when he had finished writing. she leaned against the mantelpiece. coat upon arm. what have you to say?" "Nothing. The officer turned to him: "Now." The officer retreated and stammered: "Sir." M. That done. you forget yourselves and your dignity. as they stood face to face." Then. du Roy under suspicious circumstances.

Georges and Suzanne lingered behind. however. I could not win any respect were I to be hampered with a wife whose honor was sullied. The luncheon was a long and merry one. They stopped on the way to admire the view. The former whispered softly: "Suzanne. I am master of the situation. that public malefactor. I never pardon. His wife had resumed the name of Forestier. they decided to spend a day in the country before starting." The old man hesitated. At the last moment. Georges du Roy's divorce had been obtained. Before leaving for Paris." The manager stammered: "But your wife?" "I shall apply for a divorce at once." She whispered in return: "I love you too. for I shall be free. I am not. but since I have known her game."
. I have a stated income. it was decided that Count de Latour-Ivelin should go. for he and Rose had been betrothed a month. I shall offer myself as a candidate in October in my native district.CHAPTER XVII "Are you not jesting?" "No. She took me for a simpleton. Bel-Ami. Walter was contented and happy. Georges. gazed at Suzanne as they sat in the carriage and their eyes met. as they passed on. for he could not bear the presence of the Marquis de Cazolles. and now I shall get on. Du Roy proposed a walk on the terrace. it must be handled prudently. They were going to lunch at Saint-Germain. then said: "Do so: it serves those right who are caught in such scrapes. The day was delightful." Georges rose. where I am known. "I will write the item." Georges placed his hat upon a chair and added: "Woe to those whom I find in my path. who was very pale. As the Walters were going to Trouville on the fifteenth of July. I love you madly. Mme. I have watched her. Bel-Ami had requested that he might be the only young man in the party. I shall be free. THE FINAL PLOT Three months had elapsed." "What is your object?" "To overthrow that wretch."
CHAPTER XVII
. I shall even write an article on it." "A divorce?"
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"Yes. The day chosen was Thursday. and they set out at nine o'clock in the morning in a large six-seated carriage drawn by four horses.

" "I have decided. go to your mother first. Listen." He replied quickly: "No." "Well! There is only one way. and tell her that you want to marry me. I repeat that it is useless. you do not know her." She replied: "Ask papa.CHAPTER XVII He continued: "If I cannot have you for my wife. Those are the consequences a formal proposal would produce. and then--" "And then matters will reach a climax! If you are determined to be my wife. dear. You are an indulged child. little Suzanne. I will elope with you. But you must insist." "Truly?" "Yes. It must come from you and not from me. and cried: "Oh." "What can we do?" "Have you the courage to brave your father and mother for my sake?" "Yes. I would lose my position on the journal. no. but it is dangerous--very dangerous--for you. Perhaps he will consent. as all the charming adventures in the romances she had read occurred to her. Think well of what you are doing. She will be more vexed than your father. my dear. the door of the house would be closed against me." Suzanne interrupted him: "Oh." "Well. what bliss! When will you elope with me?" He whispered very low: "To-night!" "Where shall we go?" "That is my secret. Where shall I meet you?" "Meet me about midnight in the Place de la Concorde. you must not yield. They have promised you to the Marquis de Cazolles. I shall leave the country. they let you say anything and are not surprised at any audacity on your part." "And on leaving your mother. they hope you will finally say 'yes' and they are waiting. It is the only means. mamma would be glad. and we would not even meet. Remember that after that flight you must become my wife." She clapped her hands. then! This evening on returning home. She will be very much agitated and very angry. Will you do so?" "I will. you must repeat that you will marry me and me alone. repeat the same thing to your father very decidedly."
."
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He answered impatiently: "No.

but he refused. she vowed I should be sent to a convent. I talked louder than they. He asked: "Well. and thinking his ladylove had played him false." "Your mamma? What did she say? Tell me!" "Oh.CHAPTER XVII "I will be there. That decided me to fly with you. it was terrible. She turned pale and cried: 'Never!' I wept. never. He asked in affright: "What ails you. He did not know what to say to her. hearing her agitated words. As they had vexed me. little one. and to-morrow we will leave for La Roche-Guyon. Suzanne?" "Yes. entered. Walter. Bel-Ami?" "Is it you. turning her head. no!" Mme. Mme. Walter pressed Georges to dine with them. she was like a mad woman. "Oh. being unaccustomed to Platonic affection. I protested that I would marry only you." "Ah. He waited there some time. how I love you! How brave and good you are! Then you do not want to marry Marquis de Cazolles?" "Oh. when a gentle voice whispered at the door of his cab: "Are you there. He was not as angry as she was. It is a pretty village on the banks of the Seine between Mantes and Bonnieres. I never saw her like that." The cab rolled on. and papa with a dramatic air bade me leave the room. Georges took the young girl's hand and kissed it respectfully. Papa. Suddenly he perceived that she was weeping. this cab will take us to Sevres where we can spend the night.
. he was about to drive off. And here I am. where shall we go?" He replied." He clasped her hand. Then he repaired in a cab with feverish haste to the place of meeting. my dear little one?" She replied tearfully: "I was thinking that poor mamma could not sleep if she had found out that I was gone!" ******* Her mother indeed was not asleep. When the carriage arrived at the door of the mansion. but he said you were not a suitable match for me. how did it all pass off?" She murmured faintly: "Oh." She entered the cab and he bade the cabman drive on. called out: "Come. get in. encircling her waist with his arm: "It is too late to take the train. with mamma especially. it was frightful! I entered her room and made the little speech I had prepared. and returned home to look over his papers and destroy any compromising letters. what are you and Bel-Ami doing?"
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They rejoined the others and returned by way of Chatou.

he left the room." With one bound he was out of bed. never! Are you mad?" He replied sadly: "It will do no good to yell! He has disgraced her. he sank into a chair. It was Bel-Ami here. therefore. Walter turned to her husband and asked in despair: "What does that mean?"
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"It means that that intriguer has influenced her. banging the door behind him. They would take Suzanne away for six months and that would end it." She repeated in great agitation: "Never. not finding her there. Now you are paid for it!" "I?" "Yes." "Lost. It is he who has made her refuse Cazolles. and the rest of them. A horrible suspicion possessed her and she flew to her husband. and Bel-Ami wanted to marry Suzanne! No. And he will keep her as long as we do not yield. Suzanne. in a shop. the bed had not been slept in. You have flattered and cajoled him. The best thing to be done is to give her to him. he groaned: "He has her--we are lost. Mine." With an oath. You are as much infatuated with him as Madeleine. he shall never have Suzanne. and at once. how?" "Why. you. he would not be capable of such an action.CHAPTER XVII When Suzanne left the room. Bel-Ami there. She entered." Overcome. His wife had followed him. it was empty. When he was gone. I shall lose my reason. from morning until night. she thought over all that had taken place. he must marry her now!" She cried wildly: "Marry her. Suzanne was in love with Bel-Ami. he rushed to his daughter's room. saying: "I cannot rest in this uncertainty. She rose. too. Do you think that I did not see that you could not exist for two days without him?" She rose tragically: "I will not allow you to speak to me thus." She proceeded to her daughter's room. he knew nothing of Suzanne's escapade. then no one will know of this escapade. I will arouse Suzanne and question her. too. He was in bed. Walter murmured: "But he has her. You forget that I was not brought up like you. reading. She gasped: "Have you seen Suzanne?" "No--why?" "She is--gone! she is not in her room. it was not true! She was mistaken. "Well?" she asked. to
. He had not the strength to reply: he was no longer angry.

giving his consent to his marriage with his daughter. like all women! You only act on impulse."
. but not intelligence and future. that her life was almost despaired of." as she had seen it in the painting." And he left the room. She was so ill. took up his lamp." She took the lamp and sought the conservatory. "Be silent! I tell you he must marry her! And who knows? Perhaps we shall not regret it! With men of his stamp one never knows what may come about. her despair. and said: "You are silly. He will be a deputy or a minister some day. we shall see. She might have done better as far as position. it is essential. the calm face of "Christ Walking on the Water." Mme. after that. and when he said to her: "We will return to Paris to-morrow. as she pictured them together--alone. In it he said in respectful terms that he had loved the young girl a long time. Walter still lying unconscious before the painting. I will comfort and instruct you as to what to do.-and fell into a swoon. in fact. whose wishes were to him of more value than those of his betrothed. like a vision.CHAPTER XVII avoid a scandal we must do so at once. she opened the door leading into the room which held the enormous canvas. Mme. no. At first she prayed fervently. I will never consent. they lived in a chaste and free intimacy. Bel-Ami had posted that epistle when he left Paris. So. But she only repeated angrily: "He shall not have her!" Walter rose. but as she raised her eyes and saw the resemblance to Bel-Ami. and like a practical man defended Bel-Ami." Mme. is concerned. She uttered a wild cry. You are stupid! I tell you he shall marry her. As she passed for his sister. until he had obtained a reply from her parents. Walter remained alone with her suffering. your father has bestowed your hand upon me" she whispered naively: "Already? This is just as pleasant as being your wife. repeated wildly: "I will never let him marry Suzanne! Do you hear--never!" In his turn he became incensed." But his wife replied: "No. Walter felt a desire to cry aloud and tear her hair. Walter explained his daughter's absence to the servants by saying to them that she had been sent to a convent for a short time. He is a promising young man. Kneel at My feet. He seemed to say to her: "Come unto Me. Georges and Suzanne spent a week at La Roche-Guyon. that there had never been any understanding between them. If only a priest were at hand! She would cast herself at his feet and confess all her errors and her agony--he would prevent the marriage! Where could she find a priest? Where should she turn? Before her eyes floated. however. and fell upon her knees before it. Walter. Ah. M. You saw how he downed Laroche-Mathieu in three articles. the scoundrel--how he has deceived us! But he is shrewd at any rate. Never had the young girl enjoyed herself so thoroughly. in hiding her. Then he replied to a long letter from Du Roy. but that as she came to him to say: "I will be your wife." he felt authorized in keeping her. When day broke they found Mme."
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Impatiently he returned: "It is a matter of necessity. having prepared it the night of his departure. He thought it wiser to treat her with respect. she murmured: "Jesus--Jesus--" while her thoughts were with her daughter and her lover. You do not know how to accommodate yourself to circumstances. a kind of living companionship. and that with a dignity which was very difficult to maintain in his position as husband.

You deceive everyone. Be silent. Everyone knew of it but me. Finally he desisted. What a rascal you are!" He asked: "How do you make that out? I had a wife who deceived me." He rose. obtained a divorce.CHAPTER XVIII
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CHAPTER XVIII
. the latter said: "So you are going to marry Suzanne Walter?" He replied in the affirmative. Suddenly she ceased speaking. and you made use of me in the interim." He rushed upon her and struck her as if she had been a man. and groaned beneath his blows. I surprised her. paced the room several times in order to regain his self-possession. and you want me to treat you as an honest man. adding gently: "Did you not know it?" She answered angrily: "So you are going to marry Suzanne Walter? For three months you have deceived me. He repeated: "Be silent--take care"--and he shook her as he would have shaken the bough of a tree. and you threaten to put me out of them. He asked harshly: "Will you soon have done crying?" She did not reply. having met at the door. and now you do not want me to speak of it. Since you left your wife you have been preparing for that stroke. somewhat embarrassed. She had not moved." She rebelled at such words from him: "What! Would you like me to handle you with gloves? You have conducted yourself like a rascal ever since I have known you. Then he washed his hands and returned to see what Clotilde was doing. somewhat ashamed. Without giving him time to raise the shades. good-for-nothing! Do you think I do not know how you stole a portion of Vaudrec's bequest from Madeleine? Do you think I do not know about Suzanne?" He seized her by her shoulders and shook her. Suddenly he seized his hat. I forbid you. you gather pleasure and money everywhere. What is more simple than that?" She murmured: "What a villain!" He said with dignity: "I beg of you to be more careful as to what you say. but that lie exasperated him. He stood in the center of the room. his lips twitched: "Be silent or I will make you leave these rooms. "Do not speak of that." "I know you have ruined her!" He would have taken anything else. Still she continued. "Good evening. entered the bedroom. My husband told me. and am now going to marry another."
." She cried: "Leave here--you will make me--you? You forget that it is I who have paid for these apartments from the very first. She lay upon the floor weeping softly. "You were her ruin. as he saw the form lying before him. I will not await your pleasure. ATTAINMENT It was dark in the apartments in the Rue de Constantinople. when Georges du Roy and Clotilde de Marelle. I know it. entered them. filled the basin with cold water and bathed his head. You can leave the key with the janitor when you are ready.

ready to faint at every step. They are supposed to be written by a Jean Le Dol. But he threatened the old man with shocking revelations. crowned with a wreath of orange blossoms. political reporters. and so forth. closed the door."
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His marriage was fixed for the twentieth. men. The ladies smiled and murmured as she passed them. a stranger. She looked like a beautiful doll. it was to take place at the Madeleine." Rival asked: "Do you know what has become of his wife?" The poet smiled. All the people turned to see what was coming. she dragged herself along. There had been a great deal of gossip about the entire affair." Georges du Roy and the Walters having occasioned much comment for some time. who was not envious. Walter followed on the arm of Count de Latour-Ivelin's aged father. To that announcement were subjoined the names of the staff of art and theatrical critics. vowed that she would never address a word to her son-in-law. "Well. "sharpers always succeed. the first guests arrived. her hair was gray and she sought solace in religion. Mme. sought the porter. Walter walked by her side with exaggerated dignity. She had aged and grown thinner. a young. It is comical to see them together! She looks like the statue of vengeance. grave and dignified. and said to him: "Madame is resting. He held his head proudly erect and wore upon his
. replied: "So much the better for him. Walter remembered Laroche-Mathieu's fate and yielded at once. in the Montmartre quarter. In the early part of September "La Vie Francaise" announced that Baron du Roy de Cantel had become its chief editor. autumn day. is it true that Mme. rich.' which resemble those of Forestier and Du Roy. detachments of officers came to disperse the crowd. but his wife. I have been told. She will go out soon. The ceremony took place on a clear. and joined him. adorable!" M. although he tries to appear at his ease. handsome man--something like our friend Georges--who has become acquainted with Mme. Walter reserving the title of manager. Behind them came four maids of honor dressed in pink and forming a charming court for so dainty a queen. From that I have concluded that she likes beginners and that they like her. Norbert de Varenne espied Jacques Rival. Mme. Walter and Du Roy do not speak?" "Yes." Rival asked: "Tell me. His fortune is made. Walter had aged greatly." Suddenly the beadle struck the floor three times with his staff. The men whispered: "Exquisite. She did not wish to give him her daughter's hand. "Yes and no--she lives a very retired life. and many different reports were circulated. at eleven o'clock. But--there is a but--for some time I have read political articles in 'La Plume. women in rich costumes. She did not walk. intelligent. they were followed by others. and he is very uncomfortable. obstinate like all women. The church slowly began to fill. moreover. Forestier. and the young bride appeared in the doorway leaning upon her father's arm. At ten o'clock the curious began to assemble.CHAPTER XVIII He left the room. M. Next came Georges du Roy with an old lady. Soon after. She is. You can tell the proprietor that I have given notice for the first of October. She advanced with bowed head." said he. The marriage of its chief editor was what was called a "Parisian event. Journalists no longer sneered in speaking of "La Vie Francaise." His companion." its success had been rapid and complete. Vaudrec and Laroche-Mathieu were not attentive to her for nothing.

Walter was weeping. Others approached. a priest ascended the altar.
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The tones of the organ filled the church. sir!" and he gaily repeated her words. never speak to me again. and she passed on. to unite them in the name of the Almighty. Following them was a motley procession of associates and friends of Du Roy." she had suffered intolerable anguish. and replied to congratulations with the words: "You are very kind. The bishop was marrying a daughter to her mother's lover. possessed him with the mad desire to regain her. It seemed to him that an invisible power was impelling him on. the son of the poor peasants of Canteleu. rings were exchanged. A number of illustrious people had come thither on his account." Their eyes met. and she could say nothing. melodious ones. kneeling beside Suzanne. retained. At that moment he felt almost pious. before her and two thousand persons. She could not cry: "He is mine. uttered words which signified nothing. A prelate of the Roman Church spoke thus to him. Georges fancied himself a king whom the people were coming to greet. bowed his head. and then he delivered an address to the newly married couple. and pressed it as if to say: "I shall love you always. of the sound of her voice. who had been married six weeks. he offered up thanks for his success. The sound of stifled sobs caused several to turn their heads. her face buried in her hands. then they could buy a small estate and live happily. He took." Suddenly he saw Mme." Du Roy listened to him proudly. then again they swelled into deep. Without knowing just whom he was addressing. and. He was followed by the relatives: Rose. entered from the sacristy. like the songs of birds. She was so pretty. She hated Suzanne bitterly. touched by her apparent grief. and the organ pealed forth. He asked the usual questions. with her bright eyes and roguish air! She advanced somewhat timidly and offered him her hand. She had been obliged to yield. miter on head. I am yours. for all had resumed their seats in order to
. of all their caresses. The bishop had finished his harangue. He shook hands. with a senator. That union you are blessing is infamous. Vauri and Landeck of the Opera were singing. country cousins of Mme. Georges placed Suzanne's hand upon his arm to pass through the church with her. murmured: "How affected that poor mother is!" The bishop said: "You are among the favored ones of the earth. and the recollection of all the kisses he had given her and which she had returned. they passed into the sacristy. full tones and human voices chanted over their bowed heads. It was filled with people. The new bishop of Tangiers. guide the people. and guests invited by her husband. words pronounced which bound them forever. but since the day on which she had told Du Roy: "You are the vilest man I know. Count de Latour-Ivelin with Viscountess de Percemur. she could not stop him. the red ribbon of the Legion of Honor.CHAPTER XVIII coat. like a drop of blood. A stream of people entered. smiling. bright. sir. Suddenly the vibrating tones melted into delicate. who are raised above others by your talent--you who write. He would become one of the masters of the country--he. counsel. Bel-Ami. She murmured in her soft tones: "Until we meet again." Several ladies. de Marelle. her hatred was caused by unnatural jealousy. and Georges kneeled beside his bride in the choir. for he was filled with gratitude for the blessings showered upon him. instruct. the large doors at the entrance were closed. have a grand mission to fulfill--a fine example to set. cross in hand. Walter's. He had given his parents five thousand francs of Count de Vaudrec's fortune and he intended sending them fifty thousand more. giving his arm to his wife. Finally the throng dispersed. Mme. he rose. that man is my lover. When the ceremony was over. for I will not answer you. You. full of love.

the chamber of deputies. End ofEProject Gutenberg Etext Bel Ami. The people of Paris envied him. by Henri Rene Guy De Maupassant Bel Ami from http://mc. and it seemed to him that it was only a stone's throw from the portico of the Madeleine to that of the Palais Bourbon. dazzled by the bright sunlight. He saw no one.CHAPTER XVIII
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see them leave the sacred edifice together.com/gutenberg/
. He walked along slowly. Georges du Roy.clintock. his thoughts had returned to the past. with a firm step. de Marelle. but Georges did not see them. floated the image of Mme. his head erect. and before his eyes. When they reached the threshold he saw a crowd gathered outside. Leisurely they descended the steps between two rows of spectators. rearranging the curly locks upon her temples before the mirror in their apartments. Raising his eyes. come to gaze at him. He only thought of himself. he saw beyond the Place de la Concorde.